YOUR INSIDER BUSINESS RESOURCE FOR MORE THAN 30 YEARS
Meet the Influencers Who Could Impact Your Next Project
GETTY IMAGES
AVNETWORK.COM
AUGUST 2026
16 Executive Q&A For Curtis Heath, people and culture are what count at AVDG.
46 Cloud Power Dave Van Hoy says Pro AV has reached a turning point with AI.
50 Viewpoint
16
46
50
Stian Sagholen addresses Pro AV's battery consumption.
YOUR INSIDER BUSINESS RESOURCE FOR MORE THAN 30 YEARS
Meet the Influencers Who Could Impact Your Next Project
GETTY IMAGES
AVNETWORK.COM
AUGUST 2026
16 Executive Q&A For Curtis Heath, people and culture are what count at AVDG.
46 Cloud Power Dave Van Hoy says Pro AV has reached a turning point with AI.
50 Viewpoint
16
46
50
Stian Sagholen addresses Pro AV's battery consumption.
20
CONTENTS
Our new list highlights the specialists that influence project specifications. By Sean Wargo
People
Technology
16 Executive Q&A
42 Ready for the Virtual World
Curtis Heath, president of Guitar Center Business
A new production lab is helping to train the next
Solutions, emphasizes people and culture.
generation of immersive storytellers.
By Mark J. Pescatore
By Michael Grotticelli
Business
44 Integrators … Mount Up!
40 Lock It Down Integrators and legal experts agree cybersecurity is a priority in today’s Pro AV deployments. By Carolyn Heinze
40
42
What should integrators look for in LED support systems? By Wayne Cavadi
46 Cloud Power We’re moving past embedded technology and into real-time applications for the cloud. By Dave Van Hoy
Viewpoint 50 A Disposable Dilemma It’s time to get real about the scale of Pro AV’s battery consumption. By Stian Sagholen
44 Departments 4 SYSTEMS CHECK 6 NEWS
18 NEWSMAKERS 48 PRODUCTS
Vol. 33 No. 8 August 2026 Systems Contractor News (ISSN 1078-4993) is published monthly by Future B2B. 130 W. 42nd St, 7th Floor, NY NY 10036. Periodicals postage paid at New York, NY and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Systems Contractor News, PO Box 254 Lowell MA 01853. Subscribe online at www.MySCNews.com. Please allow 6-8 weeks for address changes to take effect. © Copyright 2026 by Future US, Inc. PRINTED IN U.S.A.
avnetwork.com // August 2026 // SCN
3
SYSTEMS CHECK
Reach Out and Touch Someone
I
MARK J. PESCATORE Content Director
t finally happened. Right before the 2026 NAB Show, I dropped our “home” phone line. After two homes and more than two dozen years in South Florida, it was time to let that number go. Why so hesitant? Well, we had a kid in the house, so I thought it was important to
keep a phone line in the house. Then, we got that kid her own cell phone and the landline
mark.pescatore@futurenet.com
seemed less important. In time, the only calls we were getting were solicitations and scams. After a few years of that nonsense, I was able to convince myself to transfer the home number to a “free” cell phone that only took me two years to pay off.
facebook.com/ systemscontractor
Once that physical phone was free and clear, and after a few more months of hemming and hawing, I made the decision to cancel. I promised myself I was not getting off that service call until it was done. Had I known it would take Xfinity more than 50 minutes to make it happen, I’d probably still have the house number. Let’s take a moment to remember the home phone. Thankfully, I never had to deal
LINKEDIN linkedin.com/company/ systems-contractor-news
with a partyline that had to be shared among other households, but I’m just old enough to remember rotary phones. Eventually, my family upgraded to a touchtone model on the kitchen wall, with a cord long enough to stetch to the dining room. The struggles with trying to detangle that cord probably planted a seed that explains why I obsessed about wrapping cables
X x.com/scnmag
properly during my production career. At some point, my parents gifted us children our own phone, which we had to share between our bedrooms. You kept it in your room for a week, then it moved to the next bedroom. It was a brown “doughnut” style phone. It was never fashionable or easy to keep in position on your shoulder, and certainly couldn’t compare to the Micky Mouse designer model, but it provided more privacy than standing in the middle of the kitchen. After the Bell System broke up, I was able to buy a cheap phone for my room. It also didn’t win any style points, but it was mine. We still only had the one line, of course, so sharing of access was the order of the day, even if we were no longer sharing hardware. Later, I’d upgrade that phone to one that had—wait for it—speed dial for a handful of frequently used numbers. Once I moved up to a wireless home phone with speed dial and a headphone jack—and coupled that with call waiting and three-way calling features from the phone company—you’d have thought I was among the lords of all telecommunication creation. In this day and age, the idea of a home phone line for many of you probably seems beyond antiquated. I get that. The rapid pace of technology can warp our sense of perspective. I mean, 30 years ago, you were on the consumer electronics cutting edge if you had a pager (and yes, I did). And as ubiquitous as it today, the iPhone is yet to celebrate its 20th birthday. I think it’s too simple to consider my reluctance to drop our home phone service as simply nostalgic. It was a
avnetwork.com
AUGUST 2026 VOL. 33 NO. 8 CONTENT
Content Director Mark J. Pescatore, Ph.D. mark.pescatore@futurenet.com Senior Content Manager Wayne Cavadi Contributors Erin Budnik, Michael Grotticelli, Carolyn Heinze, Stian Sagholen, Nigel Spratling, Dave Van Hoy, Sean Wargo Art Editors Rob Crossland, Sam Richwood Production Managers Nicole Schilling, Heather Tatrow A DV E R T I S I N G S A L E S
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combination of familiarity, reliability, security, and comfort. Those feelings are the same ones you face
Ahh, the doughnut phone. Yes, we had one in brown.
from users when you decide to change their corporate AV setups. It’s one thing if a system has become unreliable. You likely won’t get much pushback if the spinning wheel of death has become a daily ritual on the room’s laptop. Otherwise, good enough often is good enough for folks who just want to come in, have a meeting, or make a presentation. If they are familiar with a system and it’s reliable, you’re going to face an uphill battle getting them out of that comfort zone. Proverbial bells and whistles are nice—and if they are easy to access and use, you’ve got some potential selling points. Just remember that your best selling point is a system that’s as easy to
use as making a phone call.
4
SCN // August 2026 // avnetwork.com
All contents ©2026 Future US, Inc. or published under licence. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be used, stored, transmitted or reproduced in any way without the prior written permission of the publisher. Future Publishing Limited (company number 2008885) is registered in England and Wales. Registered office: Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA. All information contained in this publication is for information only and is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of going to press. Future cannot accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies in such information. You are advised to contact manufacturers and retailers directly with regard to the price of products/services referred to in this publication. Apps and websites mentioned in this publication are not under our control. We are not responsible for their contents or any other changes or updates to them. This magazine is fully independent and not affiliated in any way with the companies mentioned herein. If you submit material to us, you warrant that you own the material and/or have the necessary rights/ permissions to supply the material and you automatically grant Future and its licensees a licence to publish your submission in whole or in part in any/all issues and/or editions of publications, in any format published worldwide and on associated websites, social media channels and associated products. Any material you submit is sent at your own risk and, although every care is taken, neither Future nor its employees, agents, subcontractors or licensees shall be liable for loss or damage. We assume all unsolicited material is for publication unless otherwise stated, and reserve the right to edit, amend, adapt all submissions. Please Recycle. We are committed to only using magazine paper which is derived from responsibly managed, certified forestry and chlorine-free manufacture. The paper in this magazine was sourced and produced from sustainable managed forests, conforming to strict environmental and socioeconomic standards.
A new audio system at NRG Stadium features almost 1,200 Fulcrum loudspeakers, as well as a new control system and network backbone.
NEWS
LD Systems Updates NRG Stadium Audio for World Cup
N
RG Stadium, also known as Houston Sta-
The LD Systems team had six months to remove the
frames, which allows the speakers to be lowered and
dium, hosted seven matches with nine
old system and install the full, site-wide upgrade, yet
serviced without ever affecting alignment.”
international teams across June and
early July for the World Cup 2026. And LD Systems made sure fans heard the action
bowl system tuning was completed in just six hours over a single day.
LD Systems also installed a new control system and network backbone across the building. The
“Our deep knowledge of NRG Stadium
primary mixing platform is a Yamaha Rivage PM5, and
clearly with a new Fulcrum Acoustic
has allowed us to be extremely precise
wireless audio is supported by Shure Axient wireless
bowl audio system.
during this exciting new phase of the
microphones. The audio infrastructure is managed
building,” said Kevin Broussard, sales
through a Q-SYS platform featuring Core 5200
scale deployment of weather-resistant
engineer, LD Systems.
processors operating in a redundant configuration for
Fulcrum loudspeakers, ensuring reliable
The main bowl (situated on the venue’s
mission-critical system reliability, and the Core 610
The new system is based on a large-
operation whether the stadium’s roof is open or closed. Working on behalf of Harris County
“super truss” about 250 feet above the field),
processors service the suite-level audio systems.
concourses, and support spaces utilize a total
“Previously, the suites relied on spill from the
and the NFL’s Houston Texans, LD
of 1,194 Fulcrum loudspeakers including
bowl or delayed TV audio, which could lag by up to four
Systems worked with technical
AHC Series horn systems, CS Series
seconds,” added Broussard. “Now, every suite has its
consultants WJHW for the scope, which
subwoofers, and various other models. The
own speaker system, control panel, and multiple
focused on significantly improving audio
overall system weight has been reduced by
selectable sources.”
quality while maintaining the venue’s
40% compared to the previous rig.
existing point-source system design. In 2002, LD Systems integrated the venue’s
“Because this stadium has a retractable roof, we can’t hang anything from it and
original audio requirements, including concourses,
therefore everything had to be mounted onto the
clubs, restrooms, terraces, and entrances, and has
super truss,” Broussard explained. “This constraint
continued to provide technical maintenance and
defined both the original system design and upgrade.
production support for every major event at the venue.
We re-used the original custom rigging system
AVI-SPL, Volvo Launch Autonomous Freight Operations AVI-SPL and Volvo Autonomous Solutions (VAS)
MultiDyne Expands into Camera Robotics with MRMC
M
have started commercial autonomous freight operations between Dallas and Houston using the Volvo VNL Autonomous powered by the Aurora Driver. The operations will support AVI-SPL’s freight movement and reflect the company’s continued investment in operational innovation and supply chain strategies designed to improve
ultiDyne Video & Fiber Optic Systems has
Jachetta, CEO of MultiDyne. “MRMC places us at the
acquired the assets of MRMC (Mark Roberts
point of image acquisition itself, allowing us to
Motion Control), a developer of robotic
participate in a much broader portion of the
as a strategic solution to help organizations
camera systems, motion control solutions, and
production workflow. Together, our technologies
strengthen logistics operations while supporting
automated camera tracking technologies for sports
create a powerful end-to-end ecosystem for content
safer and more sustainable freight movement. Tim
production, live events, broadcast, and digital cinema.
creators, broadcasters, and live production
Riek, chief strategy officer at AVI-SPL, said they could
professionals worldwide.”
potentially reshape logistics. “The collaboration
As part of the transaction, MultiDyne has established a new company, MultiDyne Robotics and
scalability, reliability, and long-term efficiency. Autonomous transport technologies are emerging
The combined portfolio will strengthen
allows AVI-SPL to explore innovative technologies
Motion Control. Neil Maycock, a member of the
MultiDyne’s value proposition across broadcast
that can help improve operational resilience, support
MultiDyne leadership team, will run MRMC as
television, sports production, digital cinema, virtual
long-term scalability, and strengthen the overall
managing director. The acquisition brings MRMC’s
production, corporate AV, houses of worship, live
customer experience,” he added.
core technologies, intellectual property,
events and emerging content creation markets. The
manufacturing capabilities, and key engineering
move comes during a milestone year for MultiDyne, as
expertise into the MultiDyne organization, creating a
the company celebrates its 50th anniversary.
powerful combination of complementary technologies.
Frank Jachetta
“This acquisition represents a natural and highly strategic extension of our business. MultiDyne has long been focused on the transport, processing, and management of video, audio, and data signals,” said Frank
6
SCN // August 2026 // avnetwork.com
AVI-SPL is among a select group of organizations participating in the VAS commercial pilot program.
Connect
DO THE IMPOSSIBLE. Infinite Possibilities: now AI-Agent Ready
AI Technology Powering the Next Generation of AVoIP Distribution DisplayNet Signal Distribution has redefined the apex of AVoIP performance with a powerful AI-ready control interface that enables definition and deployment of complex AVoIP systems in minutes using natural-language instructions and with no prior knowledge of the underlying API. DisplayNet is the first AV-over-IP system to ship native Model Context Protocol (MCP) support, making it directly controllable by Claude, OpenAI Codex, Google Antigravity, or any MCPcompatible AI agent out of the box. The DN-300 Series, DisplayNet’s award-winning endpoints, deliver flawless 4K/60 (4:4:4) video distribution with limitless scalability, zero-frame latency and zero image artifacts. These features allow system designers to deploy highly versatile AV signal distribution systems with robust performance, scalability, versatility and reliability at a fraction of the cost of traditional AVoIP systems. Contact us today to see how DisplayNet can move your next AV system into the future.
ZERO COMPROMISE – INFINITE POSSIBILITIES
Powered by sales@dvigear.com (888) 463-9927 www.displaynet.com
WINNER © 2026 DVIGear, Inc.
NEWS
SCN Celebrates Installation Product Awards Winners at W INNER InfoComm 2026
T
he winners of SCN Installation Product Awards 2026 were revealed on June 16, the day before the InfoComm 2026 show floor
opened, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Winning products were celebrated across 11 categories, including the new category, Most Innovative AIPowered Product. “Just when you think a technology has reached its peak, Pro AV manufacturers find new ways to deliver innovative solutions for end users and integrators alike,” said Mark J. Pescatore, content director, Systems Contractor News. “We are excited to congratulate all our winners for 2026.” And the winners are:
Most Innovative AI-Powered Product
• • Legrand | AV: RackLink Cloud • MAXHUB: XBars W70 Kit
L-Acoustics: Source Intelligence
Most Innovative Audio Hardware
• Biamp: Parlé Voice Lift • Sennheiser: TeamConnect Ceiling M Plus • Shure: MXA925 Ceiling Array Microphone
Most Innovative AV Installation Accessory
• Blackmagic Design: ATEM 4 M/E Constellation 4K Plus
• GUDE Systems: Expert Power Control 8291-2 • WyreStorm Technologies: NetworkHD 100 Series
8
SCN // August 2026 // avnetwork.com
Most Innovative Camera
• Crestron Electronics: Crestron 1 Beyond i12D Camera
• Marshall Electronics: CV625-TBN/TWN Most Innovative Collaboration Product
• Barco: ClickShare Hub Pro • Jabra: PanaCast Room Kit • QSC: Q-SYS RoomSuite Modular System
Most Innovative Digital Signage Product
Most Innovative Sustainable Product Strategy
• DAS: Audio MIA-X12 • Extron: Ecofficient
Most Innovative Video Display
• ADI: SunBrite Solis • Panasonic Projector & Display Americas:
TL-137AD15A All-In-One dvLED Display
• Promethean: ActivPanel 10
• LG Electronics USA: MAGNIT Gen 2 Micro LED
Each of the nominated products were submitted by
• Sony Electronics: BRAVIA Professional Displays
were able to vote for their favorite products through a
Display (LMPB Series) BZ-P Series
• ViewSonic: LDE All-in-One dvLED Display Most Innovative Emerging Technology
• Matrox Video: Matrox Maevex MGX Series • Symetrix: Cognio • tvONE: CALICO PRO 4200
Most Innovative KVM Solution
• Barco: Barco CTRL • Gefen, a Nice brand: GF-EXT-WiK-5G Wireless HDMI KVM Extender
Most Innovative Speaker Solution (Installed)
• DAS Audio: MIA-X12 • Extron: NF 4C LP
their respective manufacturers. Industry professionals ballot accessed through avnetwork.com. Up to three winners were selected in each category, based on the number of entries. The nominated product must have first shipped between January 1, 2025, and May 22, 2026. Products that won in last year’s awards program were not eligible in any category this year.
NEWS
Show Notes from InfoComm 2026 By Mark J. Pescatore
W
costs? International unrest? The growing popularity of
designed for corporate users during the show. The
ISE in Barcelona? Methinks it’s all of the above.
solution featured Sony’s CAPRI modular dvLED
Speaking of numbers, Michael Sullivan-Trainor,
display, which can be upgraded to a VERONA display
hile Las Vegas turned up temperatures
AVIXA’s senior industry analyst, reported during the
with a lower pixel pitch and deeper blacks. Both are
for InfoComm 2026, the show made its
show that growth in the Pro AV industry has slowed
purpose-built Sony Crystal LEDs for virtual
own heat. There was serious energy on
from 5.4% to 3.9%, but it’s still ahead of GDP in most
production. The demo also had a BRC-AM7 PTZ
the show floor, with plenty of exhibitors, presenta-
countries. Even more encouraging: Pro
camera with AI integration for tracking
tions, and experiences to keep attendees engaged.
AV buyers are increasing budget growth
and facial recognition.
The completed renovations to the Las Vegas Con-
expectation this year. Here are a couple of
vention Center helped traffic flow between the Work
other things I noticed on the show floor.
(Central Hall) and Play (North Hall) areas, with free session spaces and other attractions positioned between the two. First, let’s talk about those show numbers. I said it
Jaime Raffone, senior sales manager, virtual production, Sony, said the demand for virtual production at
Don’t sleep on virtual production.
the corporate level is “growing exponentially,” because it offers a
If you haven’t heard, there’s a buzzword
“very easy point of entry.” Many
on the show floor and I’ll stand by my assessment:
gaining momentum in Pro AV: broadcast
financial and Fortune 500 companies
Attendance was fine. Not record-breaking, not a
AV. During a presentation for media
disaster. Fine. Normal. Within acceptable parameters.
covering the show, Sullivan-Trainor said
The official numbers back me up. According to
Michael Sullivan-Trainor
the growing broadcast AV market is
have already adopted virtual production workflows and are now building out their facilities for more
AVIXA, there were 28,132 verified attendees (35,707
changing the way the industry is looking at delivering
complex productions. “Content is still king,” Raffone
total registrants). International attendance accounted
AV. In fact, broadcast production rooms that deliver
offered, adding that virtual production provides an
for 20% of attendees, with representation from 94
high production values are being adopted across other
“easier, more immersive way to build their brand.”
countries. There were also 807 exhibitors.
verticals, including corporate, government,
How does that compare to last year’s effort in Orlando, FL? InfoComm 2025 attracted 817 exhibitors,
healthcare, education, and more.
A virtual production set was also part of the Smart Workplace, which was powered by FORTÉ and
According to Trainor, the core principles of
showcased modern office technologies. It was one of
which was down from 833 in 2024. So, yes, there’s a
broadcast AV include workflows that offer repeatable
three new immersive experiences at the show; there
small downward trend, but 807 still gave attendees
execution, not just ad hoc operations, with enterprise-
was also the Pitch, powered by Diversified, which
plenty to experience.
first designs that are focused on business teams and
provided a look at the modern fan experience, while
are aligned with IT requirements. And virtual
the Retail Experience demonstrated how Pro AV
2024 in Las Vegas was 30,271, which reported 23%
production is a “very important” part of the growing
technologies are influencing consumer engagement in
international attendance. That little nugget of data is
broadcast AV market segment. He mentioned one
physical retail environments.
important. Based on these numbers, a quick bit of
company that embraced virtual production and was
math shows me the show lost about 1,300
producing content 30% faster as well as 40% more
international attendees from the last time we all
content. That kind of ROI is hard to ignore.
Orlando attendance was 30,998, and InfoComm
gathered in Las Vegas, which represents roughly 60% of the attendee loss. What kept them away? Was it outrageous travel
Joel St-Denis shows off the new Korus projector at InfoComm 2026.
10
SCN // August 2026 // avnetwork.com
Stop trying to bury the projector business.
Sony gets it. The company has developed a
Yes, the projector business is not en fuego. Robert
comprehensive virtual production ecosystem, and
Ambrose, CEO and co-founder of Caretta Research,
partnered with Vū Tampa Bay to demonstrate a setup
took a quick look at the numbers for me. The market is
Coming soon to your corporate AV setup: virtual production.
NEWS while providing competitive price points. And then there’s projection mapping. Scalable Display Technologies had a patriotic demonstration of projection mapping on a scaled version of Mount Rushmore at its booth. From monuments to historic structures, projection mapping brings existing spaces to life. “I think it’s reinvigorating production,” said James Pietsch, director of global accounts, Scalable Display Technologies.. It’s Mount Rushmore projection mapping, Simpsons style.
ViewSonic launched its LSD Series of laser projectors in May and had three models on display at InfoComm. Jeff Muto, business line director,
not showing a positive trend; in fact, it’s on the decline
company’s first to feature VIVID PRIME, and is
ViewSonic, said the lumens-per-dollar ratio has
at a roughly 5% drop annually. But it ain’t dead yet.
designed to appeal to museums, themed
improved with the company’s third-generation
entertainment, and immersive experiences.
laser technology, so ViewSonic can deliver a more
business development and business transformation
Shimonishi said the company is also seeing new
viable product for schools and small businesses.
for Panasonic Projector & Display Americas, the
interest from golf simulation systems that rely on
(And yes, they have a dedicated Golf Mode, too. I
market oscillates between flat and declining,
projectors. Obviously, you can’t launch a golf ball at a
sense another trend.)
depending on the year. Except this year—because
dvLED display—or at least not more than once.
According to Petro Shimonishi, director of new
sales are up. She’s seeing customers “boomerang”
Joel St-Denis, director of project management at
Muto also admitted the professional projector market is “slowing,” but with relatively few projector
from dvLED solutions due to the cost and complexities
Christie, admitted concerts and live events have been
manufacturers in the industry, there’s no reason to
of maintenance issues.
“taken over” by LED. However, he said, “There’s still
abandon the technology. And slowing doesn’t mean
growth in certain areas.” Fixed installations are a
stopped; globally, this is still a multi-billion dollar
technology. VIVID PRIME is a RGB laser light source
bright spot, particularly with projectors in the
industry. So, plenty of sales, new technological
technology that’s designed to eliminate the
8,000-12,000 lumen market space. St-Denis said
developments, and new potential markets and
“rainbow effect” without introducing new imaging
these models, including Christie’s new Korus Series,
applications. Sure doesn’t sound like a dead market
issues. The new PT-HTQ20 4K projector is the
are bright enough to punch through ambient light
segment to me.
Panasonic is also investing in a new projector
MISSION CRITICAL – VIDEO EXTENSION ACTIVE OPTICAL CABLES
• Ultra-High Reliability DisplayPort, HDMI, DVI cables • Detachable Connectors facilitate installation • Field-Proven MTBF >150,000 hours • Lengths from 10-330 ft. (3-100m) • UL CMP-OF plenum rated • Up to 8K resolution • TAA compliant
(888) 463-9927 • sales@dvigear.com
www.DVIGear.com/HyperLight
avnetwork.com // August 2026 // SCN
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© 2026 DVIGear, Inc.
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16/07/2026 14:19:27 PM 6/9/2026 4:54:01
NEWS
nsign, BrightSign Partnership Expands Deployment Options nsign, the digital signage SaaS platform, has partnered with BrightSign to expand deployment options available to its customers, integrators, and channel partners. The partnership represents an important milestone in nsign’s international growth strategy, particularly in North America, where BrightSign media players are widely deployed across enterprise digital signage networks in various sectors.
The NYSE built three control rooms to keep up with its video production demands.
New York Stock Exchange Expands Live Production Capabilities
allowing organizations to adopt the platform
T
announcements, interviews, IPO events, broadcasts,
to simplify signal conversion, standardize
without replacing previously installed hardware.
digital streams, and its daily live show, NYSE Live.
infrastructure, and support production throughout the
By supporting selected BrightSign media players, nsign can now be deployed on both new and existing BrightSign-based infrastructures,
This provides a practical migration path for
he New York Stock Exchange creates a steady
graphics more quickly. Three additional TouchDrive
stream of live content, including open-
panels further improved control and efficiency.
ing and closing bell ceremonies, corporate
A few years ago, it became clear to the production
The project also introduced openGear and Ross Tally
building. NDI is used in select rooms and event spaces
companies looking to modernize their digital
team that an upgrade was needed. As production
where permanently installed cameras reduce setup time
signage operations while protecting existing
demands grew across the trading floor and event
and help the team respond quickly to new productions.
technology investments.
spaces, the team pushed its control room, which had
For AV integrators and channel partners, the
not been updated since 2010, to its limits.
“The combination of a Carbonite switcher, Xpression, and Ross Tally made everything a whole
integration expands the range of deployment
“We were definitely behind on technology, and
scenarios available to customers. Many large
some of it was even starting to die on us,” recalled Ian
different machines. They just talk seamlessly,” Wolff
multi-site organizations already operate
Wolff, director of broadcast and AV operations, NYSE.
said. “openGear has proved a lifesaver and a space
BrightSign-based networks and are looking for
“We were also lacking space for everything we
saver. You don’t have racks and racks of encoders,
CMS platforms that offer centralized management,
wanted to do. There were some days we did two or
just a 4 RU unit with a few cards in the back.”
scalability, and remote device control. The
three events in one control room, which isn’t ideal.
collaboration also reinforces nsign’s partner-first
There’s only so much jerry-rigging you can do.”
growth model. “North America is a strategic market for
To meet growing demands and prepare for the
lot easier than doing productions with several
CTI managed the integration and worked closely with the NYSE team throughout the project. They developed a tailored solution based on how the team
future, last year the NYSE decided to redesign the
operates and supported the move from the legacy
nsign, and many of the retailers, restaurant
area and build three matching control rooms.
control room to a temporary setup and ultimately the
chains, and enterprise organizations we engage
Planning for future scalability was also key. The NYSE
final space. Ross Video provided hands-on technical
with already operate BrightSign-based
kept SDI for most of the facility, added NDI where it
support during the process and continues to support
networks,” explained Mónica Fernández,
added clear benefits, and ensured the new setup could
the team today.
managing director, nsign. “This partnership
adapt as requirements evolve.
removes a significant adoption barrier by
With three identical control rooms, the NYSE can
The new control rooms are built on Ross Video
now run multiple live productions simultaneously,
allowing those organizations to benefit from
technology. Each room supports identical workflows,
with less strain on people and systems. Interviews,
nsign without replacing existing BrightSign
giving the team a consistent environment and the
ceremonies, investor events, and daily programming
deployments.”
ability to move productions between rooms quickly.
no longer have to compete for space.
From a technical perspective, the integration
Three Carbonite switchers are central to the
Having identical control rooms also reduces
enables the full nsign feature set to run on
project, with one in each control room. The main room
operational risk. If one room has a problem,
selected BrightSign media players. The
uses Carbonite Ultra 60 for NYSE Live, handling larger
productions can move to another with the same setup
integration has been tested and validated on the
productions with more guests, feeds, and complex
and continue with minimal interruption—a
BrightSign XT1145 and LS445 media players, with
visuals. The other two rooms support more live events,
redundancy that was a key objective from the start.
additional models planned for future
such as investor programming and daily content.
certification. The initial compatibility includes devices from the XT and LS Series.
12
SCN // August 2026 // avnetwork.com
XPression remains important in every control
The facility is also built for the future. While SDI meets current needs and security requirements, the
room. By combining XPression with Carbonite, the
system can scale to support 12G-SDI and 4K
team created a smooth workflow and can trigger
workflows over time.
NEWS
SCN’s Wayne Cavadi poses with the most money he’s ever seen as LG SuperSign updates the ticket in real time.
The massive 40-foot-high Daktronics LED wall makes a splash at Circa Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.
Circa: High-Tech in Old Vegas The resort and casino leans heavily on Pro AV technologies.
as well. A Q-SYS system powers the audio throughout the casino, from the main floor to the pool and the
By Wayne Cavadi
“O
latency. Every second counts for sports watchers, and
Legacy Club and ballrooms, adding distributed amps
Crestron’s platform enables the casino team to
throughout the casino and restaurant area.
synchronize the same content across multiple displays
Stadium Swim is where watching sports meets
ld Vegas,” home to historic downtown
with hardly any lag. RNWY software, which is easily
pool parties. There are six pools that hold up to 4,000
Las Vegas and the iconic Fremont
configured to automate audio, video, and lighting,
people. And front and center is the 40x143-foot HD
Street experience, is far off the beaten
powers a tablet that can be used within the casino or
Daktronics video wall, bringing what is inside to
path of the Strip. Visitors enter a time warp where,
remotely to keep up with all the current action.
poolside. The screen runs 24 hours a day and shows
despite a massive 1,375-foot LED canopy covering
Speaking of challenges, both Treadwell and
UFC fights, hosts fantasy football parties, and has
the street, casinos and hotels are still adorned by
Holloway agreed that one of the biggest was
events like “4th of July Swim,” “Weenies and
bright marquees and $5 tables.
bandwidth. In the age of streaming, Circa relies on
Bikinis,” and World Cup watch parties in 2026.
The Circa Resort and Casino had other plans. Built
EverPass Premium Streaming, Apple TV, and Rokus,
The outdoor video wall is powered by the same
from the ground up between 2019-20 on 2.78 acres of
as well as licensing for Peacock and Netflix. With more
technology as inside, with the Crestron DM NVX
land, the tallest resort downtown has redefined the
streaming comes more internet bandwidth—luckily
platform, an Analog Way Aquilon C+ powering the
casino experience—as well as the sportsbook and the
for Circa, while they may have had to reroute or add a
13.7-million-pixel display, and similar d&b
poolside experience—for visitors to the city built on
few solutions here and there, Treadwell and Holloway
audiotechnik sound system. Instead of a ticker
excess and endless fun.
have dodged major bandwidth upgrades.
beneath the board, there is a DJ booth that runs audio
Upon walking into the casino, guests are carded,
A pair of Analog Way Aquilon processors keep the
to the d&b V-Series line array for the main Stadium
with their IDs being swiped into the system. According
video wall’s picture perfect, powering the 70 million-
Swim PA, which welcomes in-house DJs and the
to Craig Treadwell, AV engineering principal, and Chris
ish pixels while supporting multiple 4K signals and
genre’s biggest names to plug in and pump out music
Holloway, director AV services, Circa Hospitality Group,
displaying multiple games in different zones at once. A
at events and parties.
this is more than simply an age check. Circa uses its
2.5mm pixel pitch ticker, also from Daktronics, spans
As with any casino, advertisements and guest
propriety technology to track data and metrics, such as
the bottom of the entire video wall, running scores and
instruction are vital. There is digital signage aplenty
where people come from, so they can adjust their
advertisements for Circa, which is driven by custom
throughout the casino. A BrightSign signage platform,
massive video walls of sporting events accordingly.
content software. The odds boards are simply run by
working collaboratively with Otis Elevator Company, is
PCs; Treadwell, Holloway, and their team can
behind the signage in the elevators; however, Circa also
Vegas Vickie—the 46-year-old cowgirl who once
configure the massive screen in a variety of ways by
turned to the LG SuperSign CMS to power the signage
greeted visitors atop the now-demolished Glitter
showing multiple games or even just one.
from the casino floor to the exclusive Legacy Club. The
Daktronics displays at the Concierge Desk and
Gulch and has been retrofitted with a fresh dose of
There is no escaping sports inside Circa. Just in
system feeds into the Crestron encoders and is routed
neon by Young Electric Sign Company—immediately
case that video wall isn’t large enough for you, the
anywhere they want, including the Legacy Club, where
grabs your attention as an appetizer to what’s in store.
adjacent Mega Bar has 50 LG TVs synched and
a live ticker tracks the value of 500 two-ounce gold bars.
Circa is a Pro AV smorgasbord for sports lovers of all kinds. The indoor centerpiece is a 144-foot-wide, three-story high, 2.5mm pixel pitch video wall in its sportsbook. A Crestron DM NVX AV over IP platform was
controlled from a tablet that span the same length as the sportsbook display. d&b audiotechnik solutions run rampant
Adding to the technological prowess of the casino is a broadcasting studio located right next to the sportsbook. The Vegas Stats & Information Network
throughout the casino, as 24C-E column speakers
(VSiN) airs programming right from the venue,
and 27S subwoofers, along with several E6
which now includes live broadcasts to Sirius XM
selected to power the many displays and video walls.
loudspeakers for front fills, power the audio from
Channel 158. This investment in broadcast AV makes
There are 321 Crestron NVX decoders throughout to
play-by-play to music. Meyer Sound, Sonance, and
Circa one of the most complete technological hotels
solve arguably the biggest challenge for the casino:
Martin subs all have an audio presence in the casino
in Vegas.
14
SCN // August 2026 // avnetwork.com
NEWS difficult to provide clients with accurate cost assessment for projects. In addition, frustration with paying tariffs to vendors knowing they’ll be the ones to collect any refunds instead of giving them back makes one question the legality of vendors even being allowed to charge them to us in the first place,” shared an end user in North America. The March AV Employment Index (AVI-E) remained steady at 54.2 in April. The U.S. job growth rebounded but at a slower pace than last year’s norms. Some are finding it hard to hire skilled employees
Increasing Costs Slow Demand in April By Erin Budnik
while others are freezing hiring. The Pro AV Business Index report is derived from a monthly survey of the AVIXA Insights Community, a research community of industry members that tracks business trends in commercial AV. The report comprises two diffusion indexes: the AV Sales Index (AVI-S) and the AV Employment Index (AVI-E). In
activity. Companies are stating they have a good
each case, an index above 50 indicates an increase in
pipeline through 2026.
sales or employment activity.
Tariff uncertainty, geopolitical conflict, and
Visit www.avixa.org/AVindex to access the free
he AV Sales Index (AVI-S) for April dropped
economic instability are the dominant concerns,
monthly Pro-AV Business Index reports and learn
7.3 points to 52.2, with 21% of survey respon-
making it difficult to forecast, price projects, and close
more about the methodology. For more information
dents reporting they saw a decrease in sales
sales. However, seasonal patterns in education and a
about joining the AVIXA Insights Community, visit
for the month. This most likely means buyers are still
few other vertical markets provide optimism for the
www.avixa.org/AVIP.
active but are moderating spend, leading to softer
coming months.
Erin Budnik is the manager of market insight for
T
revenue outcomes despite continued deployment
“Constantly changing tariff add-ons make it
AVIXA.
avnetwork.com // August 2026 // SCN
15
PEOPLE EXECUTIVE Q&A
The Real Differentiators AVDG, the Pro AV integrator business for Guitar Center Business Solutions, emphasizes people and culture.
Curtis Heath Position: President Company: Guitar Center Business Solutions Overtime: I enjoy spending time with my family, training in martial arts, training horses, and staying connected to music and live events.
SCN: Which markets are showing the most growth?
SCN: Do AVDG’s customers have a clear vision for
CH: We are seeing strong momentum in corporate,
how they want to use AI in their projects?
higher education, healthcare, legal, stadiums and venue
CH: Some do, but many are still trying to define what
SCN: How long have you been with this company, and
work, and AI-related clients. Corporate AV continues to
practical AI means inside their environments. There
what are your responsibilities?
evolve as companies rethink collaboration spaces,
is a lot of excitement around AI, but the clearest use
Curtis Heath: I have been with Guitar Center for
executive briefing centers, hybrid meeting
cases right now tend to be around productivity,
almost five years. My responsibility is to lead our B2B
environments, and return-to-office expectations.
automation, analytics, meeting intelligence,
platform, which includes Audio Visual Design Group
Higher education remains a strong vertical because
support, and better user experiences. In Pro AV, I
(AVDG), Guitar Center Professional (GC Pro), and
campuses are continuously modernizing. Stadiums and
think the near-term value of AI is less about a
Custom House at Guitar Center, bringing together Pro
entertainment venues are also showing real growth
futuristic concept and more about solving real
AV, pro audio, systems integration, managed services,
because venues are no longer just designed around one
problems. Can AI help improve meeting summaries?
and high-end music solutions for corporate, education,
primary event. The AI vertical (our largest) is especially
Can it optimize room usage? Can it support
hospitality, houses of worship, venue, stadium, and
interesting. They need AV environments that can keep
predictive maintenance? The customers who are
entertainment clients.
pace with their growth, and they often value partners
most advanced are not asking for AI just to say they
who can move with urgency while still maintaining
have AI. They are asking how it can improve
discipline and quality.
workflow, reduce friction, increase uptime, and
By Mark J. Pescatore
SCN: Does your integrator business, AVDG, have any overlap with your music-based brands?
create better experiences. That is where the
CH: Yes, but the overlap is strategic rather than
SCN: How important is AVaaS to AVDG, and is
transactional. AVDG is a true Pro AV integrator focused
demand increasing for managed services?
on complex systems integration, corporate AV, higher
CH: AVaaS is important, and I do believe it will
SCN: You recently held your inaugural Resonate
education, healthcare, stadiums, and large-scale
continue to become more relevant in our industry.
technology expo in Nashville. What made you decide
environments. GC Pro and Custom House are more
That said, the reality is that many clients still budget
to produce the show?
rooted in pro audio, music gear, studios, venues, artist
and operate through a traditional CapEx model,
CH: We created Resonate because we saw an
relations (artists, engineers, producers, etc.), and
especially when it comes to larger AV investments.
opportunity to bring the full Guitar Center Business
entertainment spaces. Where the overlap becomes
That makes AVaaS a real opportunity, but also one
Solutions ecosystem to life in one place. Nashville was
powerful is when a client needs more than one
that will take time to fully mature. We are seeing
the right place to do it. It is Music City, but it is also a
capability. A stadium, for example, may need integrated
momentum, but education is still a big part of the
growing business, entertainment, hospitality,
AV infrastructure from AVDG, musical instruments and
process. For AVDG, the direction is clear: We want
education, and technology market. We wanted clients,
backline from Guitar Center, and high-end audio or
AVaaS to work, and we believe it can create value for
vendors, consultants, educators, artists, and internal
artist-facing support from Custom House. That
both the client and the integrator. But we also have to
teams to experience how these worlds connect. The
combination is very unique in the marketplace.
meet clients where they are today.
goal was not just to create a trade show. The goal was
SCN: As an integrator, how do you find that sweet spot
SCN: How is AVDG helping its clients with
between technology and simplicity for corporate AV?
cybersecurity?
CH: The sweet spot starts with people. In my opinion,
CH: Cybersecurity has become critical. AV systems are
SCN: Was Resonate a success, and can we expect to
talent and culture are the real differentiators in any AV
no longer isolated pieces of hardware sitting in a room.
see more tech expos in the future?
company. The gear matters, but the gear is secondary
They are networked systems, often connected to
CH: For a first-time event, it validated the idea that
to the people designing it, engineering it, installing it,
enterprise infrastructure, cloud platforms, user
there is real value in bringing Pro AV, pro audio, music,
programming it, supporting it, and helping the client
devices, cameras, microphones, control systems, and
vendors, clients, and thought leadership together
understand how to use it. In corporate AV, the goal is
remote management tools. That means AV integrators
under one roof. What made it successful was not only
not to impress the client with complexity. The goal is
have to think more like technology partners. We need
the attendance or vendor participation, but the
to create rooms, systems, and experiences that feel
to work closely with the client’s IT and security teams,
conversations it created. It helped clients better
intuitive, reliable, and consistent. The best corporate
follow network standards, document systems
understand the depth of Guitar Center Business
AV environments are often the ones where the
properly, and make sure the solutions we deploy do
Solutions. I do expect Resonate to continue. We will
technology almost disappears. That only happens
not create unnecessary risk. AVDG helps clients by
keep learning, refining the format, and making sure it
when you have a team culture that is focused on
designing with security in mind from the beginning.
delivers value. The opportunity is to build it into a
listening first to the client’s needs and goals, solving
The best cybersecurity approach is not something
recurring platform that supports the industry, our
the actual business problem, and thinking through the
added at the end of a project. It has to be part of the
clients, our partners, and the broader Guitar Center
experience from the client’s point of view.
design, deployment, and support model.
mission.
conversation becomes much more meaningful.
to create a platform for connection, education,
16
SCN // August 2026 // avnetwork.com
technology, music, and business development.
PEOPLE NEWSMAKERS NANOLUMENS has formed
supports clients across a wide
BROMPTON TECHNOLOGY
a partnership with 3DOT
range of applications, from music
welcomed ANDREW BEAUDET
TECHNOLOGIES, a
recording and studio design to
as its new head of sales for the
Burlington, Ontario-based
immersive audio. In this new
Americas. With almost three
distributor specializing in
leadership role, Marchitto is
decades of experience across the
video wall systems. 3Dot Technologies brings
working on advancing tools,
music and digital signage
experience in designing and deploying
Joe Marchitto
customized video wall systems across a wide
alignment across the organization. He oversees the
passion for sales running a distributions company with
range of industries. The partnership expands
management and evolution of ASG’s system design
independent manufacturers. Building on that knowledge,
Nanolumens’ presence in Canada and enables
across both pre and post-sales functions to streamline
he branched into digital signage, where he worked with
broader access to its full portfolio of display
project execution, deepen engineering engagement, and
major LED display manufacturers before the live events
solutions across vertical markets. Through the
deliver a more seamless and responsive client experience.
industry helped him develop a keen understanding of
workflows, and engineering
distribution partnership, 3Dot Technologies will
Andrew Beaudet
expectations from large-format LED displays.
provide regional sales support, system design
ANTHONY JAMES PARTNERS
consultation, installation, and integration
(AJP) has named MICHAEL
CCS PRESENTATION
services for Nanolumens dvLED and video
MARTIN CTO. Martin has led AJP’s
SYSTEMS (CCS) launched its
processing solutions.
broadcast systems and network
California operations with the
infrastructure practice for nearly
appointment of PETER and
two decades. As CTO, he is focused
SORINA PANTIS as partners. The
MIRI TECHNOLOGIES has expanded the global reach and availability of its products with the
Michael Martin
signing of a new distribution partnership for the
technology strategy across all disciplines while
United States and Canada with MIDWICH. The
continuing to oversee the planning and design of
where the company previously
agreement reinforces Miri’s channel partnership
integrated systems across the firm’s project portfolio.
operated through 2018, and
strategy for meeting the rapidly growing demand
With more than 44 years of industry experience, Martin
follows its recent entry into the
for the X510 dual-cellular bonding router and the
specializes in SMPTE ST 2110 IP-based production
Pacific Northwest as part of a
new V410 4K live encoder/decoder.
environments, broadcast control rooms, network
broader push to extend its
on guiding the company’s
partnership marks the company’s Peter Pantis
architecture, and large-scale fiber and structured Melbourne, Australia’s VIOLET AUDIO has
cabling infrastructure.
formed VIOLET AUDIO US, a new distribution
return to the California market,
partner-led model into key Sorina Pantis
western markets. Peter Pantis has
five years of experience with CCS, most recently serving
company established to bring the company’s
ATLONA has welcomed ALESIA
as director of technical and installation services. As
professional audio solutions to the North
HENDLEY to its growing Pro AV
partners, Peter and Sorina Pantis lead CCS’s efforts
American live sound market. Industry veteran
team. Bringing more than 15 years
throughout the state, serving customers across
Phil Wagner is president of the new entity, which
of industry experience spanning
education, corporate, healthcare, houses of worship,
oversees sales, marketing, training, and support
live production, broadcast,
and other vertical markets.
for the evolving Violet Audio product range across
manufacturing, and business
the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Violet
Alesia Hendley
Audio US will focus initially on the rollout of the
organization with a strong reputation for technical
appointed ROBIN ROY as senior
dMix 128, a live mixing platform designed to
expertise, industry leadership, and relationship-driven
account manager, overseeing the
deliver advanced processing power and flexibility
growth. Beginning her career as a front-of-house
continued development of
at a highly competitive price point.
(FOH) engineer, she transitioned into manufacturing
Cleerline’s distributor network
and business development leadership roles with
across the United States. Based in
development, Hendley joins the
CLEERLINE TECHNOLOGY GROUP
SFM was appointed the Canadian distributor for
companies including Access Networks, Audinate, and
Robin Roy
YEALINK. The agreement enables SFM to bring
most recently Sennheiser.
than 20 years of experience in the commercial and
Yealink’s full suite of professional
Chattanooga, TN, Roy brings more
residential AV channels, having demonstrated success
videoconferencing products to market across
AUDIX appointed ERIC REESE to
in previous roles with distributors and independent
Canada, offering resellers and system integrators
VP and SAM VITALI as director of
sales representative organizations throughout the
direct access to one of the world’s most trusted
sales–European markets. In his
Atlanta region.
collaboration technology portfolios. The portfolio
new role within the Videndum
addresses a wide spectrum of deployment
Creative Solutions family of
CODA AUDIO appointed MARK
brands, Reese oversees all
MEDING as managing director of
functions at AUDIX, including
CODA Audio USA. In this role,
sales, marketing, product
Meding leads the company’s
development, and operations.
continued strategic expansion
environments, ensuring resellers can match the right solution to every client requirement.
Brian Gross
Eric Reese
ADVANCED SYSTEMS
Reese brings more than 26 years of
GROUP (ASG) welcomed BRIAN
extensive experience in the AV and
Mark Meding
GROSS as an account manager for
entertainment industry to his new
market presence, developing channel partnerships,
its audio team and promoted JOE
position. Vitali oversees sales,
and driving sustainable revenue growth. With more
across North America, with a
marketing, and operations within
than 30 years of experience in Pro AV, Meding brings a
focus on further strengthening
MARCHITTO to Western Regional
Sam Vitali
CTO. Gross brings a blend of
the EMEA region to ensure the brand is optimally
proven track record spanning business ownership,
hands-on studio experience,
represented and supported across Europe. He joins
sales management, product management, and
AUDIX following a highly successful tenure at Focusrite.
business development.
technical knowledge, and client-focused insight. He
18
industries, Beaudet found his
SCN // August 2026 // avnetwork.com
NEWSMAKERS PEOPLE
David Servinis
D&B AUDIOTECHNIK appointed
European operations. In this role,
PPDS has welcomed sales
DAVID SERVINIS to the position
Enders serves as the central
professional and Pro AV veteran,
of regional manager, Ontario. In
leadership point of contact for
TOM KEEFE, as its new director
this new role, Servinis is
FORTÉ’s growing European
of sales, dvLED North America.
responsible for supporting and
region, partnering with FORTÉ’s
An AVIXA CTS holder, he brings
growing the d&b presence across
leadership in Ireland, the U.K.,
more than 20 years of experience
the Ontario market by working
Sweden, and Germany. Enders
Tobias Enders
and market knowledge to the
Tom Keefe
closely with partners, integrators, consultants, and end
provides more day-to-day focus on existing expansion
PPDS team, with proven expertise in sales, business
users throughout the region. Servinis brings an
plans, including new facilities in Frankfurt and London
development, and market analysis. His core
extensive background in the professional audio and
that will each have full Velocity meeting room solution
responsibilities include developing and defining the
music industries to d&b audiotechnik, most recently
capabilities, along with stronger coordination with
company’s organizational sales structure and
serving as the North Central territory manager in
FORTÉ’s technology partner network.
executing its go-to-market strategy.
commercial acoustics for Primacoustic. GRASS VALLEY has appointed
The RIEDEL GROUP appointed
DIGILED has appointed PJ
SAM CRAIG as VP, global
GUDRUN SCHARLER as CEO of
PEDRONI as senior director of
pre-sales. Craig, who previously
Riedel Networks. Scharler brings
national sales. Based in Seattle,
spent seven years with the
extensive executive experience
Pedroni leads efforts to grow
company in a number of
from leading telecommunications
awareness of digiLED in new
leadership roles, returns to Grass
and technology companies, where
markets, highlighting the
Sam Craig
company’s global track record of
advisory services at Diversified. In his new role, Craig
performance, led customer-focused transformation,
delivering ambitious projects across sports, immersive
leads Grass Valley’s global pre-sales organization,
and managed complex organizations. Her track record
experiences, attractions, and DOOH applications.
working closely with regional teams across the
includes key roles at Unitymedia, where she served as
PJ Pedroni
Valley after serving as VP of
Gudrun Scharler
she has improved operational
Americas, EMEA, and APAC to strengthen
COO, as well as senior leadership positions at Nets
FORTÉ has promoted TOBIAS ENDERS to managing
collaboration, align customer engagement strategies,
Group, E-Plus, Sunrise Communications, and
director, Europe, expanding his leadership
and support continued growth across the Grass Valley
Telefónica Germany. Most recently, she held leadership
responsibilities across the company’s growing
Media Universe.
roles at Canyon Bicycles and P2 eBike GmbH.
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16/07/20263:43:56 14:18:38PM 7/7/2026
Our new list highlights the specialists that influence project specifications. GETTY IMAGES
By Sean Wargo
E
very year, the Pro AV industry eagerly awaits
also many specialists that serve as an upstream
consultants themselves. This led to the formation of a
influencer of the exact specifications of a given
working committee to guide the creation of the
installation project.
collection vehicle, along with its underlying metrics.
Those specialists sit at the intersection of the art vs.
The trickiest part was to formulate a way of
the SCN Top 50 Systems Integrators. The
science of Pro AV and are often at the cutting edge of
gauging both the diversity of services offered by the
reason isn’t necessarily because the rank-
technology as they build out use cases for the latest and
consultants and their impact to product selection. The
ing contains a bullet-proof gauge of the size of the
greatest. This means they have real impact on what
results are visible here.
channel. Instead, it serves as a testimonial of sorts to
ultimately gets sold and installed in end user facilities
In terms of the specific methodology, Apogee
the contribution that integrators are making to the
and spaces—to the tune of billions of dollars in value.
Insight developed a questionnaire with the input from
industry, as well as a moment of accolade for the work
We can see from the SCN Top 50 how large the top
done by the companies that are willing to submit their
firms are in that segment, but just how much impact
questionnaire was programmed and hosted by Veridata
information, albeit in a self-reported fashion.
are AV design consultants having? One intuitively
Insights. Respondents were asked to complete the
Of course, there is a data element as well, with a
knows that it’s significant but not with any real
profile via a link that was shared to Future’s B2B
signal around the size of companies and their growth,
specificity. Enter this new feature, the SCN Top AV
database of subscribers and via social media. The intent
which is helpful input for understanding the business.
Consultants.
was to open the funnel of responses to any firm that
However, what the SCN Top 50 doesn’t cover is another
the AV design consultants on the committee. This
might qualify, knowing that the actual responses
part of the AV value chain that provides assistance to
Research and Community
the customer before the actual work of the integrator
To help build out this article, Future, the parent
begins: the AV design consultant.
company behind SCN, reached out to Apogee Insight,
In short, that definition is fairly simple. To be
a research company I established with Lee Dodson, a
qualified as a consultant for this list, the company must
large and small, that serve as design-build firms,
fellow Pro AV industry veteran. Our role was to design a
have staff allocated to consulting with clients on their
similar to the construction industry. But there are
data collection effort, with input from AV design
AV-specific needs. This does leave some intentional
There are certainly many integration firms, both
20
SCN // August 2026 // avnetwork.com
themselves would be reviewed for qualification to the definition of an AV design consultant.
BUSINESS
gray areas, but respondents focused more on IT or
aggregated sense of contribution than as an
who started in adjacent disciplines. An example here is
acoustic engineering were excluded. More importantly,
individual company differentiator.
Salas O’Brien, which has many arms of its engineering
respondent companies cannot derive direct revenues from the sale of hardware.
Fortunately, there is another way to segment the list of consultant respondents than just the value
business as they service industrial facilities. This diversity of approach comes through in the data
From there, as the data will show, consultants can
component. As you will see, each AV consultant offers an
relating to services offered. Although acoustic
offer a wide variety of project types across a number of
array of services to a variety of vertical markets across a
engineering is viewed as a completely separate
different vertical markets. We also included all
host of different solution types. This diversity means
competency and market, the most cited service offered
geographic regions, though we expected responses to
that a potential customer would likely first look for
was consulting around acoustics, followed by IT
come mostly from North America.
relevance of competencies. And geographic presence
systems design and IT/structured cabling. This is a
will be important for those seeking consultants with
strong testament to the strong overlap between AV and
more familiarity about local culture and preferences.
IT these days, as AV technology has become a part of the
In the spirit of transparency, several caveats are
Therein lies our real objective: to highlight the
IP network in many companies. Regardless, the first
worthy of note. First and foremost, similar to the SCN
important differences these firms offer, as they have
tended to be fairly focused in their offerings, with each
Top 50, data was self-reported and may not be
real impact on the resulting experiences delivered.
offering an average of four.
means the respondent estimated to the best of their
Analyzing Results
more varied matter and is likely a more potent selection
ability, with potential for inflation given a natural
With all that context in place, let’s take a look at what the
criteria for a prospective customer. Here the companies
desire to position themselves well.
results actually show. In this first attempt, we are happy
cover an average of nine out of a total of 16 tested
to report that a full 38 qualified AV design consulting
possibilities, as they seek to ensure broad relevancy.
Grain of Salt
tracked in exactly the same way we expected. This
The good news is that the amount of inflation is
The number of application areas covered is a much
likely similar from firm to firm, given the way in
companies provided sufficient data to support our
which game theory typically applies to this type of
publication of their profiles. More than 100 companies
that are commonplace these days, meeting rooms and
data. In other words, apply your desired discount
expressed interest; several started the survey but did not
conference spaces are the most widely served, with
rate accordingly, but also recognize that many of
fully complete it, while others were disqualified due to
learning spaces and large auditoriums in the next two
the responses are as honest a reflection of the data
being outside of the realm of AV-specific design.
spots on the list. Beyond that is where companies get
as is possible.
In terms of the profiles of the respondents, while the
Perhaps more important than inflation, though, is
As you might expect, given the types of AV projects
into entertainment spaces such as enclosed venues. The
largest number came from various major cities around
survey also asked for the respondent to also rank each of
the real difference between the amount of volume of
the world, there are several examples of multinational
these application areas in terms of their contribution to
impact and the quality of it. This study doesn’t
firms or those hailing from specific countries, such as
revenues, which yielded the same relative order.
attempt to put a gauge around the quality of work
Italy, the Philippines, Australia, Hong Kong, and Brazil.
Thus far, all of the data offers a great overview of the
done by any one of the companies listed. Certainly,
On average, the companies have representation in
types of consultancies that are serving the Pro AV space.
growing into a large company means that
approximately four cities, with the highest represented
But in the end, the question on many people’s minds is
organization has been successful at serving its
in 13. Across those locations, the consultancies employ
where we started: How much impact are these
particular set of customers well.
more than 700 people who spend at least 75% of their
companies having on the selection of goods and
time providing AV-related consulting and design
services? The data shows quite a lot, even with the
emphasizes taking on a large number of projects and
services. Only eight respondents said they subcontract
caveats provided earlier.
providing a lighter touch, thereby generating an
some of their labor to other firms.
For some, this might mean the company
apparently large impact. Others may take on fewer
The AV design and consultant firms represented
Similar to the staffing allocation, most of the survey
here report specifying a total of $2.39 billion worth of
projects and report smaller numbers, but offer a
participants said more than half of their revenues come
AV systems and solutions in calendar year 2025. Not
deeper dive to deliver a highly engaging or artistic
from AV projects, with the average being 66%. This
yet at the value of the total installations done by the
activation. This is why the SCN Top AV Consultants
includes some firms who only have a small portion (less
SCN Top 50, but a compelling number nonetheless.
list is sorted alphabetically, not by value metric. In
than 10%) of revenues derived from such projects, a
the end, the value metric serves more as an
reflection of the crossover nature of many consultancies
2.4%
19.4%
Media/Entertainment
Finance/Banking/ Real Estate
3.4%
4.3%
higher education in second (18.2%), and performing
study of consultants for the Pro AV channel. As noted
4.9%
Stadiums/
7.9%
(finance, banking, and real estate) at around 19%, with
This feature represents a beginning point in the
Healthcare
7.9%
percentage is from traditional corporate markets
arts/house of worship in third (9.8%).
Transportation
Hospitality
Which markets are being so influenced? Consistent with the application areas above, the largest
18.2%
Top Vertical Markets
Higher Education
here, the 38 pioneers in this study represent a significant level of influence on solution design decisions, as their own customers will likely attest. How a consultant is ultimately selected can only really be answered by a careful look at overall project requirements and how they match the experience and
13.2%
Other
K-12 Education
competency of the particular consultant firm and their designers. Perhaps as this list grows, more of the work done by this important segment can be highlighted to inspire others to seek its counsel when designing that
8.7%
Government/Military
22
SCN // August 2026 // avnetwork.com
9.8%
Performing Arts/HoW
next exceptional experience.
Year Established FTE (75%+ Time to AV)
Percentage of Company 2025 Revenue from Pro AV Consulting Projects / Services Provided for Remaining Revenues
Top Application Areas
Total Value of 2025 Spec'ed AV
Acentech a centech.com Acentech provides AV consulting services for a wide range of facilities, including performing arts venues, sports and recreation facilities, higher education campuses, corporate workplaces, healthcare environments, laboratories, and civic buildings. The company plans, designs, and commissions AV systems that support communication, collaboration, learning, entertainment, and spectator experiences, with solutions ranging from presentation and conferencing systems to large scale sound reinforcement, video display, broadcast, and event technologies.
A.D.R. STUDIOS a drinc.org A.D.R. Studios is an acoustical, audio, video, theatrical, film, and control systems consulting, design, and engineering services company. The company has a rich history working in many facets of the music, theater, entertainment, and education industries. The company provides a broad range of services for many different clients. Available services include comprehensive design and consulting for theaters, concert halls, recording and film studios, home theaters, conference centers, boardrooms, houses of worship, hotels, and restaurants. A.D.R. Studios also offers certified acoustical testing and calibration of audio and video systems.
AECOM a ecom.com A Fortune 500 firm, AECOM is a global infrastructure leader committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, the company solves complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation, and buildings for its clients. AECOM teams partner with public and private sector clients to create innovative, sustainable, and resilient solutions throughout the project life cycle—from advisory, planning, design, and engineering to program and construction management.
8 $300 m
3
1% AV Consulting/Design
Not Specified
9 $25 m
99% Architectural Design, Acoustics, Mechanical/ Electrical/ Plumbing, Intelligent Buildings, IT/ Structured Cabling, IT Systems Design, AI Consulting, Security, Data Center, Cybersecurity, Analytics/ Business Intelligence, Experiential Design (Non-AV), Medical Equipment Planning, Software Programming, Other: 5 other business lines, and 3 construction companies
3
60% AV Consulting/Design 40% Acoustics
As one of the country's most experienced home technology design firms, Axiom produces designs for sophisticated home systems that make life easier now—and are ready for future upgrades. Over the past 20 years, the company has created customized designs for home and business owners across the globe. Every design reflects deep technological expertise, as well as a commitment to making technology “disappear.”
5
Cavea Engineering c avea.it
2023
In ancient theaters and amphitheaters, the "cavea" was the space reserved for spectators, designed to make the performance experience unforgettable. Today, the company extends the definition of "cavea" to all those spaces—auditoriums, cinemas, conference rooms, universities, and collective spaces—dedicated to dissemination, conferences, and education. Cavea Engineering is specialized in multimedia design, acoustics, and the automation of seats and tables.
5
CD Consult c dconsult.net
2018
CD Consult is a multimedia and acoustic engineering firm that also specializes in the field of stage engineering. Based on more than 30 years of experience in the AV industry, CD Consult was established in 2018 to provide consulting and design services to enterprises in Brazil and Latin America that are looking for better results on their AV and UC solutions.
3
Not Specified
$18 m
$3.5 m
4 Large Auditoriums 5 Enclosed Entertainment Venues
2 Large Auditoriums 3 Enclosed Entertainment Venues 4 Broadcast/Production Rooms 5 Museums
1 Stadiums/Arenas 2 Mission Critical/EOC/Command and Control Rooms 3 Meeting and Conference Spaces 4 Large Auditoriums 5 Simulation
2 Meeting and Conference Spaces 3 Learning Spaces 4 Mission Critical/EOC/Command and Control Rooms 5 Concert Halls/Theaters
1 Meeting and Conference Spaces 2 Mission Critical/EOC/Command and Control Rooms 100% AV Consulting/Design
$5 m
1992
3 Meeting and Conference Spaces
1 Large Auditoriums
2020
Axiom Design a xiomdesign.com
SCN // August 2026 // avnetwork.com
85% AV Consulting/Design
1995 50
2 Learning Spaces
1 Concert Halls/Theaters
$5 m
Avant Acoustics has cultivated a reputation as a world-class acoustical consulting and AV design firm. The company believes the best results are achieved by investing the proper time in needs assessment, detailed construction documents, and thorough construction oversight and commissioning. Services include acoustical consultation, AV systems design, paging system design, construction administration, and system commissioning.
24
50% Acoustics, IT Systems Design
15% Acoustics, Other: Audio/Video Engineering for shows
1964
AVIOT is focused on AV systems and intelligent IoT. The company understands that the signal between devices should not be restricted by geography or different data channels. Therefore, it creates smart IoT platforms and develops professional gateways to build a new IoT ecosystem. AVIOT works closely with well-known brands worldwide in different scopes—such as AV systems, central control equipment, digital signage, audio, video distribution and transmission, and display screens—providing customers with professional solutions and technical support.
50% AV Consulting/Design
1989
Avant Acoustics a vantacoustics.com
AVIOT a v-iot.com
1 Concert Halls/Theaters
1989
3 Learning Spaces 4 Enclosed Entertainment Venues 5 Museums
1 Not Specified 2 Not Specified
50% AV Consulting/Design
3 Not Specified
50% Security, Software Programming
4 Not Specified 5 Not Specified
1 Large Auditoriums 80% AV Consulting/Design 20% Architectural Design, Acoustics, Other: patent royalties
2 Concert Halls/Theaters 3 Learning Spaces 4 Mission Critical/EOC/Command and Control Rooms 5 Meeting and Conference Spaces
1 Meeting and Conference Spaces 90% AV Consulting/Design 10% Other: AVaaS
2 Learning Spaces 3 Courtrooms 4 Large Auditoriums 5 Mission Critical/EOC/Command and Control Rooms
Year Established FTE (75%+ Time to AV)
Percentage of Company 2025 Revenue from Pro AV Consulting Projects / Services Provided for Remaining Revenues
Top Application Areas
Total Value of 2025 Spec'ed AV
CMS AV Consultants c msav.com
1992
With more than three decades of expertise, CMS is known for its innovative design and comprehensive services. Its team goes beyond being AV planners, designers, engineers, and consultants—they are also troubleshooters, test pilots, and educators, dedicated to delivering exceptional results. From space planning and systems commissioning to road mapping and concept-tocompletion services, CMS brings a full spectrum of expertise to every project.
12
CMTA c mta.com
8
Coherent Design c oherentdesign.com
2012
Coherent Design provides AV design/consulting services focusing on large scale entertainment venues and hospitality. Its hospitality-related projects rank among the largest in the world. The company also has extensive experience in higher education and corporate facilities, with a growing list of top tier corporate clients.
8
The Consulting Group t heconsulting.group A minority-owned small business born out of the passion of its founders, The Consulting Group offers more than three decades of expertise, delivering innovative solutions tailored to specific operational needs. With a people-first approach, the company ensures its solutions are not only technically robust but also right-sized for each environment, designed for future flexibility, and have a feasible path for implementation. Beyond conventional engineering, its experts actively contribute to the broader industry as thought leaders engaging in industry workshops, roundtables, and research.
Convergent Technologies Design Group tdginc.com c In 1999, when the company was named, the concept of convergence—bringing together multiple specialties under one umbrella— was a forward-thinking approach. Today, it remains a key differentiator. Unlike firms that focus solely on acoustics, audio design, or security systems, Convergent Technologies Design Group offers a comprehensive suite of services. Its integrated model ensures that clients receive cohesive, streamlined solutions across all aspects of their projects.
$50 m
6 $135 m
9
Electro-Media Design (EMD) e lectro-media.com
1990
EMD develops detailed designs and works closely with the owner’s design teams to coordinate and optimize the integration of the technologies with the architecture. Its design documentation is recognized as being among the best in the industry. Services include needs analysis/programming, detailed design, modeling, peer reviews, design assist, design build, cost estimating, and value engineering reviews.
2
$22 m
$11 m
5 Meeting and Conference Spaces
2 Large Auditoriums 3 Enclosed Entertainment Venues
20% Acoustics, Other: Lighting Design
4 Meeting and Conference Spaces 5 Learning Spaces
1 Meeting and Conference Spaces 2 Learning Spaces 100% AV Consulting/Design
3 Broadcast/Production Rooms 4 Lobbies/Pass Through Areas 5 Digital Signage
1 Learning Spaces 2 Courtrooms
98% AV Consulting/Design
3 Meeting and Conference Spaces
2% IT/ Structured Cabling
4 Mission Critical/EOC/Command and Control Rooms 5 Theme Parks
1 Learning Spaces 2 Meeting and Conference Spaces 100% AV Consulting/Design
Not Specified
DLAA provides acoustical, AV, and theatrical consulting services in support of new construction and renovation projects where high-performance systems are required. The company serves the owner and performers first, ensuring high-quality systems with user-friendly controls.
3 Lobbies/Pass Through Areas 4 Large Auditoriums
80% AV Consulting/Design
1999 16
2 Patient Treatment/Operating Rooms
1 Concert Halls/Theaters
2023
1979
SCN // August 2026 // avnetwork.com
96% Mechanical/ Electrical/ Plumbing, IT/ Structured Cabling, IT Systems Design, Security, Data Center
$61 m
D.L. Adams Associates (DLAA) d laa.com
26
1 Learning Spaces 4% AV Consulting/Design
1993 8
3 Lobbies/Pass Through Areas 4 Digital Signage 5 Enclosed Entertainment Venues
2015
$75 m
CDA is a technology consulting, design, and engineering firm that specializes in AV, UC, workplace technology, and broadcast/ production video solutions for corporations and institutions spanning a wide range of market sectors. As a strategic technology consultant, it helps organizations solve complex business challenges through technology—from selecting the right platforms and tools to managing the planning and logistics of large-scale deployments and scaling AV and UC operations and support.
100% AV Consulting/Design
$30 m
CMTA is a MEPT consulting firm with 50-plus offices designing projects across the country, with a focus on sustainable buildings.
Communications Design Associates (CDA) daconsultants.com c
1 Meeting and Conference Spaces 2 Large Auditoriums
3 Patient Treatment/Operating Rooms 4 Courtrooms 5 Lobbies/Pass Through Areas
1 Concert Halls/Theaters 2 Large Auditoriums
45% AV Consulting/Design
3 Enclosed Entertainment Venues
55% Acoustics, Other: Theatre Consulting
4 Broadcast/Production Rooms 5 Stadiums/Arenas
1 Meeting and Conference Spaces 2 Concert Halls/Theaters 100% AV Consulting/Design
3 Large Auditoriums 4 Broadcast/Production Rooms 5 Learning Spaces
Year Established FTE (75%+ Time to AV)
Percentage of Company 2025 Revenue from Pro AV Consulting Projects / Services Provided for Remaining Revenues
Top Application Areas
Total Value of 2025 Spec'ed AV
Engineering Harmonics (EH) ngineeringharmonics.com e Engineering Harmonics is a multidisciplinary consulting firm specializing in the conception and design of multimedia serving diverse markets. Its success has been built on relationships. Collaborative, responsive, and innovative best describe the company’s approach when working with architects, builders, and owners. EH brings an understanding and skillset in translating challenges from architectural and acoustics to image capture, performance sound, and digital signage into elegant and often innovative solutions.
12 $18 m
Greg Jeffreys Consulting g jconsult.co.uk
2022
Founded by industry veteran Greg Jeffreys, the company’s specialist consulting is based on his leadership roles on the AVIXA board as well as AVIXA standards. Specialties include AV strategy, standards, displays, immersive/simulation, technology-enabled meeting/teaching space design, UX design, research, writing, and teaching/coaching.
2
Hewshott h ewshott.com
2002
Hewshott is a leading independent consultancy practice established in 2002 with offices in the United States, U.K., India, Singapore, and Australia. The company handles a broad range of projects, providing services across all aspects of AV, acoustics, and ICT technologies, focusing on the user experience first and foremost, seeing technology as a quiet enabler.
25
Joseph D’Angelo and Associates angeloconsultants.com d
2017
An AV, acoustics, telecom, and security consultancy, Joseph D’Angelo and Associates is known for over-the-top drawings and process automation via software to provide accurate documentation.
$100 m
72
LCI is a building engineering design house providing tailor-made, sustainable building services design solutions. The company begins every project with a fresh perspective, relishing the freedom of blue-sky thinking before drilling down into the details. The company is passionate about forming meaningful connections with clients and encourages an open dialogue to inspire innovative ideas, backed by a challenging and courageous culture that balances pioneering design with a commercial sensibility consciousness.
3
Lipp A/V Design l ippav.com
1999
Lipp AV Design provides sound, video, and AV system design consulting services. The company mainly serves the architectural community for new construction or major rehab projects. Lipp AV Design does not sell any equipment, but rather provides a specification and drawings, which can be used for competitive bidding from several sound and AV contractors.
1
McKay Conant Hoover (MCH) m chinc.com
1987
McKay Conant Hoover specializes in sound systems for larger, acoustically challenging rooms like theaters and large meeting rooms, as well as immersive AV spaces for museums and corporate customer engagement centers. MCH is an acoustical and AV/IT/security consultancy with ample expertise with virtually all building types and enthusiastic commitment to fulfilling its clients’ goals.
4
Mulvey & Banani Audio Visual (MBAV) m bii.com
2017
Since 2007, Mulvey & Banani Audio Visual has been at the forefront of designing innovative AV systems that empower collaboration, accelerate decision making, and enhance operational efficiency. From voice and video to public address, MBAV integrates innovative technology with single IP networks to create boundary-free solutions for projects of all scales. Whether optimizing company-wide communication or supporting global initiatives, MBAV ensures every system delivers exceptional performance and value.
10
SCN // August 2026 // avnetwork.com
3 Large Auditoriums
5% Software Programming
4 Concert Halls/Theaters
$50 m
1 Simulation 100% AV Consulting/Design
$40 m
3 Museums 4 Meeting and Conference Spaces 5 Learning Spaces
1 Meeting and Conference Spaces 75% AV Consulting/Design 25% Acoustics, IT Systems Design
2 Learning Spaces 3 Large Auditoriums 4 Concert Halls/Theaters 5 Stadiums/Arenas
1 Meeting and Conference Spaces 2 Lobbies/Pass Through Areas 100% AV Consulting/Design
3 Broadcast/Production Rooms 4 Large Auditoriums 5 Enclosed Entertainment Venues
1 Meeting and Conference Spaces 5% AV Consulting/Design
2 Learning Spaces
95% Acoustics, Mechanical/ Electrical/ Plumbing, Intelligent Buildings, IT/ Structured Cabling, IT Systems Design, Security, Data Center, Medical Equipment Planning
3 Digital Signage 4 Mission Critical/EOC/Command and Control Rooms 5 Large Auditoriums
1 Concert Halls/Theaters 2 Museums 100% AV Consulting/Design
$2 m
$50 m
5 Enclosed Entertainment Venues
2 Mission Critical/EOC/Command and Control Rooms
$65 m
2022
2 Learning Spaces
95% AV Consulting/Design
$3.5 m
LCI l ciconsultants.com.au
28
1 Meeting and Conference Spaces
1988
3 Large Auditoriums 4 Lobbies/Pass Through Areas 5 Not Specified
1 Concert Halls/Theaters 50% AV Consulting/Design 50% Acoustics, IT/ Structured Cabling, IT Systems Design, Security
2 Large Auditoriums 3 Enclosed Entertainment Venues 4 Broadcast/Production Rooms 5 Lobbies/Pass Through Areas
1 Meeting and Conference Spaces 2 Patient Treatment/Operating Rooms 100% AV Consulting/Design
3 Learning Spaces 4 Large Auditoriums 5 Museums
Year Established FTE (75%+ Time to AV)
Percentage of Company 2025 Revenue from Pro AV Consulting Projects / Services Provided for Remaining Revenues
Top Application Areas
Total Value of 2025 Spec'ed AV
Network Technologies n ticonsultants.com NTI was founded in 1998 to provide professional commercial technology consultation services. Its team of professionals design the structured cabling, wireless systems, security systems, and AV systems for multiple industries. NTI's senior management team has grown into thought leaders in the low-voltage industry, with more than 100 years of collective expertise. Services include consulting for technology (low voltage) systems, coordinated design, design documentation, procurement management, vendor installation oversight, peer reviews, and commissioning.
NV5 Technology —US n v5.com NV5 is an independent design and consulting services specializing in AV, IT, security, lighting, and acoustics. It has a nationwide footprint with international resources through NV5 Intl. Pro AV services include custom software development.
Original Syndicate (OGS) o riginalsyndicate.com Original Syndicate is a creative technology firm uniquely positioned to marry critical business thinking with deep expertise in technology systems design, integration, deployment, and operations. Neither a traditional management consultancy nor a traditional integrator, it's the firm clients call when they need both: the strategic clarity to know what to build, and the operational discipline to make it work in production. OGS measures success when the technology becomes invisible and the effects are transformative.
3 Not Specified
75 $180 m
8 Not Specified
Phase Shift partners with owners and design teams on projects where technology is central to performance and experience. Through early engagement, the firm translates early project vision into clear, buildable solutions. With experience across many markets, Phase Shift emphasizes seamless integration with architecture and highly coordinated documentation. The result is technology that works as intended—intuitive, reliable, and built to support long-term success.
12
S2N Technology Group s 2ngroup.com
2022
From concept to delivery and beyond, S2N harnesses its technical expertise and extensive experience in building construction to select and implement the client’s technology effectively. Through project development, advisory, design, implementation management, and operations and maintenance, S2N seeks to provide full lifecycle services to maximize a project’s ROI.
4
Shen Milsom & Wilke (SM&W) s mwllc.com Shen Milsom & Wilke (SM&W) is an internationally recognized design consulting firm specializing in technology systems for the built environment. SM&W provides independent, vendor-neutral advisory, planning, and design services spanning acoustics, IT, infrastructure and systems design, physical security, and medical equipment planning. With 13 offices—strategically located across North America, Europe, and Asia—and a team of more than 230 professionals, SM&W supports many of the world’s most recognized organizations with consistent expertise across every major global region. Its multi-disciplinary approach enables clients to benefit from fully integrated solutions that align technology, architecture, and operations on projects of exceptional scale and complexity.
Smart Eye w ww.smarteyebs.com Smart Eye offers consulting on AV/IT solutions and AV/IT networks, as well as engineering and other services, to assist customers with their AV/IT needs.
30
SCN // August 2026 // avnetwork.com
65% Intelligent Buildings, IT/ Structured Cabling, IT Systems Design, Security, Other: Project Management
$32 m
$15 m
45% Acoustics, IT/ Structured Cabling, IT Systems Design, Security, Data Center, Software Programming, Other: Lighting Design
$100 m
1987 75 $825 m
20% Managed Services/ AV Operations, Experiential Design (Non-AV), Software Programming
$1 m
5 Enclosed Entertainment Venues
2 Simulation 3 Enclosed Entertainment Venues 4 Broadcast/Production Rooms 5 Not Specified
2 Not Specified 3 Not Specified 4 Not Specified 5 Not Specified
1 Museums 2 Learning Spaces
70% AV Consulting/Design
3 Meeting and Conference Spaces
30% IT/ Structured Cabling, Security
4 Broadcast/Production Rooms
25% AV Consulting/Design
2 Lobbies/Pass Through Areas
5 Simulation
1 Meeting and Conference Spaces 75% Managed Services/ AV Operations, IT/ Structured Cabling, IT Systems Design, Security, Medical Equipment Planning, Other: Audiovisual
3 Digital Signage 4 Large Auditoriums 5 Learning Spaces
1 Enclosed Entertainment Venues 2 Not Specified
2% AV Consulting/Design
3 Not Specified
98% Managed Services/ AV Operations
4 Not Specified
30% AV Consulting/Design
2 Learning Spaces
5 Not Specified
1 Meeting and Conference Spaces 70% Acoustics, Intelligent Buildings, IT/ Structured Cabling, IT Systems Design, Security, Data Center, Medical Equipment Planning
3 Large Auditoriums 4 Courtrooms 5 Mission Critical/EOC/Command and Control Rooms
1 Meeting and Conference Spaces
2021 3
3 Learning Spaces 4 Large Auditoriums
1 Not Specified 80% AV Consulting/Design
1992 45
2 Lobbies/Pass Through Areas
1 Learning Spaces 55% AV Consulting/Design
2024
2016
Salas O'Brien is a 5,300-person engineering company covering all markets, both commercial and federal, with more than 60 discipline service offerings. Its AVL, acoustics, and technology (IT and security) teams include more than 175 people.
35% AV Consulting/Design
1995
Phase Shift Consulting p haseshift.com
Salas O’Brien s alasobrien.com
1 Meeting and Conference Spaces
2006
70% AV Consulting/Design 30% Managed Services/ AV Operations, Acoustics, IT/ Structured Cabling, IT Systems Design
2 Learning Spaces 3 Broadcast/Production Rooms 4 Lobbies/Pass Through Areas 5 Digital Signage
Year Established FTE (75%+ Time to AV)
Percentage of Company 2025 Revenue from Pro AV Consulting Projects / Services Provided for Remaining Revenues
Top Application Areas
Total Value of 2025 Spec'ed AV
Stantec s tantec.com/en
1990
Stantec is global leader in sustainable engineering, architecture, and environmental consulting. Its professionals deliver the expertise, technology, and innovation communities need to manage aging infrastructure, demographic and population changes, the energy transition, and more. Stantec includes designers, engineers, scientists, project managers, and strategic advisors. The company innovates at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships to advance communities everywhere.
80
Tad Associates t echnologyarchitecturedesign.com Tad illuminates the convergence of the physical and digital worlds through the integration of technology, architecture, and design. Its multidisciplinary team provides technology strategy, AV design, digital experience design, project management, and technology advisory services to companies seeking to create meaningful connected environments. From global standards in workplace and healthcare facilities to sophisticated digital experiences, the company helps clients translate business objectives into thoughtful, scalable technology experiences that enhance communication, collaboration, and engagement.
$30 m
Trinity delivers full-service technology and acoustic consulting service, including site assessment and network architecture.
80% Acoustics, Mechanical/ Electrical/ Plumbing, Intelligent Buildings, IT/ Structured Cabling, IT Systems Design, Security, Data Center
2 Meeting and Conference Spaces 3 Patient Treatment/Operating Rooms 4 Learning Spaces 5 Large Auditoriums
1 Meeting and Conference Spaces
2010
2 Large Auditoriums 40
100% AV Consulting/Design
$50 m
1970
Trinity Consultants c eramiassociates.com
1 Mission Critical/EOC/Command and Control Rooms 20% AV Consulting/Design
22 $30 m
3 Broadcast/Production Rooms 4 Learning Spaces 5 Digital Signage
1 Large Auditoriums 8% AV Consulting/Design 92% Mechanical/ Electrical/ Plumbing, IT/ Structured Cabling, IT Systems Design, Security, Data Center, Cybersecurity, Other: Eco consulting & testing
2 Concert Halls/Theaters 3 Meeting and Conference Spaces 4 Enclosed Entertainment Venues 5 Learning Spaces
Year AV Consulting Practice Formed / Full-Time Employees Devoting 75% or More Time to AV / Total Estimated Value of AV Consulting Projects in 2025
Waveguide w aveguide.com From its inception as AV consultants in 1996, Waveguide has maintained a can-do attitude, staying nimble, efficient, and cutting edge while also being friendly and fun. Over the years, its services have grown to include IT, acoustics, AV managed services, data analytics, and more in the life cycle of communication technologies. The company believes in elevating the human connection by consistently delivering a communication experience that inspires confidence. To do that, Waveguide designs, deploys, and operates proven technology solutions.
1996 45 $40 m
WJHW w jhw.com
1990
Founded in 1990, WJHW is a 100-plus person firm offering best-in-class design services and consulting in audio, visual, video and scoring displays, broadcast provisions and video production, acoustics and noise control, performance lighting and rigging, scoreboard hoisting systems, Wi-Fi/DAS, distributed TV and satellite, video surveillance and access control, and tel/data structured cabling.
40
Wright & Hunter w righthunter.com Wright & Hunter provides planning and support, design and consulting, and project management services. The company helps teams to integrate technology infrastructure, communications systems, and security systems.
34
SCN // August 2026 // avnetwork.com
Percentage of Company 2025 Revenue from Pro AV Consulting Projects / Services Provided for Remaining Revenues
Top Vertical Markets for Revenue
1 Meeting and Conference Spaces 34% AV Consulting/Design 66% Managed Services/ AV Operations, Acoustics, IT/ Structured Cabling, IT Systems Design, Analytics/ Business Intelligence, Software Programming
2 Learning Spaces 3 Lobbies/Pass Through Areas 4 Concert Halls/Theaters 5 Broadcast/Production Rooms
1 Stadiums/Arenas 2 Learning Spaces 100% AV Consulting/Design
$15 m
5 Concert Halls/Theaters
1 Not Specified
1992 6 Not Specified
3 Enclosed Entertainment Venues 4 Broadcast/Production Rooms
2 Not Specified 100% AV Consulting/Design
3 Not Specified 4 Not Specified 5 Not Specified
CONSULTANT DIRECTORY BY FOCUS Broadcast/Production Rooms A.D.R. STUDIOS Acentech AECOM Avant Acoustics CMS AV Consultants CMTA Communications Design Associates (CDA) Convergent Technologies Design Group D.L. Adams Associates (DLAA) Electro-Media Design (EMD) Hewshott Joseph D'Angelo and Associates McKay Conant Hoover (MCH) Mulvey & Banani Audio Visual (MBAV) Network Technologies (NTI) NV5 Technology—US Phase Shift Consulting Smart Eye Tad Associates Trinity Waveguide WJHW Concert Halls/Theaters A.D.R. STUDIOS Acentech AECOM Avant Acoustics AVIOT Cavea Engineering CMTA Coherent Design Communications Design Associates (CDA) Convergent Technologies Design Group D.L. Adams Associates (DLAA) Electro-Media Design (EMD) Engineering Harmonics (EH) Hewshott Joseph D'Angelo and Associates
36
LCI Lipp A/V Design, Inc. McKay Conant Hoover (MCH) Mulvey & Banani Audio Visual (MBAV) Network Technologies (NTI) NV5 Technology—US S2N Technology Group Shen Milsom & Wilke Tad Associates Trinity Waveguide WJHW Courtrooms AECOM Avant Acoustics CD Consult CMTA Communications Design Associates (CDA) The Consulting Group Convergent Technologies Design Group Electro-Media Design (EMD) Engineering Harmonics (EH) Hewshott McKay Conant Hoover (MCH) Mulvey & Banani Audio Visual (MBAV) Network Technologies (NTI) NV5 Technology—US S2N Technology Group Shen Milsom & Wilke Stantec Trinity Waveguide WJHW Digital Signage Acentech AECOM Avant Acoustics AVIOT
SCN // August 2026 // avnetwork.com
CMS AV Consultants CMTA Communications Design Associates (CDA) The Consulting Group Convergent Technologies Design Group Engineering Harmonics (EH) Hewshott Joseph D'Angelo and Associates LCI Mulvey & Banani Audio Visual (MBAV) Network Technologies (NTI) NV5 Technology—US Phase Shift Consulting S2N Technology Group Shen Milsom & Wilke Smart Eye Stantec Tad Associates Trinity Waveguide WJHW Enclosed Entertainment Venues A.D.R. STUDIOS Acentech AECOM Avant Acoustics AVIOT Cavea Engineering CMS AV Consultants Coherent Design Convergent Technologies Design Group D.L. Adams Associates (DLAA) Electro-Media Design (EMD) Engineering Harmonics (EH) Hewshott Joseph D'Angelo and Associates LCI McKay Conant Hoover (MCH)
Mulvey & Banani Audio Visual (MBAV) Network Technologies (NTI) NV5 Technology—US Salas O'Brien Shen Milsom & Wilke Smart Eye Stantec Tad Associates Trinity Waveguide WJHW Large Auditoriums A.D.R. STUDIOS Acentech AECOM Avant Acoustics Cavea Engineering CD Consult CMS AV Consultants CMTA Coherent Design Communications Design Associates (CDA) Convergent Technologies Design Group D.L. Adams Associates (DLAA) Electro-Media Design (EMD) Engineering Harmonics (EH) Hewshott Joseph D'Angelo and Associates LCI Lipp A/V Design, Inc. McKay Conant Hoover (MCH) Mulvey & Banani Audio Visual (MBAV) Network Technologies (NTI) NV5 Technology—US Phase Shift Consulting S2N Technology Group Shen Milsom & Wilke Smart Eye Stantec
Tad Associates Trinity Waveguide WJHW Learning Spaces Acentech AECOM Avant Acoustics AVIOT Cavea Engineering CD Consult CMS AV Consultants CMTA Coherent Design Communications Design Associates (CDA) The Consulting Group Convergent Technologies Design Group Electro-Media Design (EMD) Engineering Harmonics (EH) Greg Jeffreys Consulting Hewshott Joseph D'Angelo and Associates LCI McKay Conant Hoover (MCH) Mulvey & Banani Audio Visual (MBAV) Network Technologies (NTI) NV5 Technology—US Phase Shift Consulting S2N Technology Group Shen Milsom & Wilke Smart Eye Stantec Tad Associates Trinity Waveguide WJHW
CONSULTANT DIRECTORY BY FOCUS Lobbies/Pass Through Areas Acentech AECOM Avant Acoustics AVIOT CMS AV Consultants CMTA Coherent Design Communications Design Associates, Inc (CDA) The Consulting Group Convergent Technologies Design Group Electro-Media Design (EMD) Engineering Harmonics (EH) Joseph D'Angelo and Associates LCI Lipp A/V Design, Inc. McKay Conant Hoover (MCH) Mulvey & Banani Audio Visual (MBAV) Network Technologies (NTI) NV5 Technology—US Phase Shift Consulting S2N Technology Group Shen Milsom & Wilke Smart Eye Tad Associates Trinity Waveguide WJHW Meeting and Conference Spaces A.D.R. STUDIOS Acentech AECOM Avant Acoustics AVIOT Cavea Engineering CD Consult CMS AV Consultants
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CMTA Coherent Design Communications Design Associates, Inc (CDA) The Consulting Group Convergent Technologies Design Group Electro-Media Design (EMD) Engineering Harmonics (EH) Greg Jeffreys Consulting Hewshott Joseph D'Angelo and Associates LCI McKay Conant Hoover (MCH) Mulvey & Banani Audio Visual (MBAV) Network Technologies (NTI) NV5 Technology—US Phase Shift Consulting S2N Technology Group Shen Milsom & Wilke Smart Eye Stantec Tad Associates Trinity Waveguide WJHW Mission Critical/EOC/ Command and Control Rooms Acentech AECOM Avant Acoustics AVIOT Cavea Engineering CD Consult CMS AV Consultants CMTA Communications Design Associates, Inc (CDA) The Consulting Group Convergent Technologies Design Group Electro-Media Design (EMD) Engineering Harmonics (EH)
SCN // August 2026 // avnetwork.com
Greg Jeffreys Consulting Joseph D'Angelo and Associates LCI McKay Conant Hoover (MCH) Mulvey & Banani Audio Visual (MBAV) NV5 Technology—US S2N Technology Group Shen Milsom & Wilke Smart Eye Stantec Tad Associates Trinity Waveguide Museums A.D.R. STUDIOS Acentech AECOM AVIOT CMS AV Consultants CMTA Convergent Technologies Design Group D.L. Adams Associates (DLAA) Electro-Media Design (EMD) Engineering Harmonics (EH) Greg Jeffreys Consulting Joseph D'Angelo and Associates LCI Lipp A/V Design, Inc. McKay Conant Hoover (MCH) Mulvey & Banani Audio Visual (MBAV) Network Technologies (NTI) NV5 Technology—US Phase Shift Consulting S2N Technology Group Shen Milsom & Wilke Stantec Tad Associates Trinity Waveguide
Patient Treatment/ Operating Rooms AECOM CMTA Communications Design Associates, Inc (CDA) The Consulting Group Convergent Technologies Design Group Engineering Harmonics (EH) LCI Mulvey & Banani Audio Visual (MBAV) Phase Shift Consulting S2N Technology Group Shen Milsom & Wilke Stantec Tad Associates Simulation AECOM AVIOT CMTA Communications Design Associates, Inc (CDA) Convergent Technologies Design Group Engineering Harmonics (EH) Greg Jeffreys Consulting LCI Mulvey & Banani Audio Visual (MBAV) NV5 Technology—US Phase Shift Consulting S2N Technology Group Shen Milsom & Wilke Tad Associates Waveguide Stadiums/Arenas Acentech AECOM Avant Acoustics CMS AV Consultants CMTA Coherent Design
Convergent Technologies Design Group D.L. Adams Associates (DLAA) Engineering Harmonics (EH) Hewshott LCI Mulvey & Banani Audio Visual (MBAV) NV5 Technology—US S2N Technology Group Shen Milsom & Wilke Trinity WJHW Theme Parks AECOM The Consulting Group Engineering Harmonics (EH) Joseph D'Angelo and Associates Mulvey & Banani Audio Visual (MBAV) Network Technologies (NTI) Shen Milsom & Wilke AECOM Avant Acoustics CMS AV Consultants CMTA Coherent Design Convergent Technologies Design Group D.L. Adams Associates (DLAA) Engineering Harmonics (EH) Hewshott LCI Mulvey & Banani Audio Visual (MBAV) NV5 Technology—US S2N Technology Group Shen Milsom & Wilke Trinity WJHW
BUSINESS CYBERSECURITY
Lock It Down
ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS
Integrators and legal experts agree cybersecurity is a priority in today’s Pro AV deployments.
By Carolyn Heinze
L
ong behind us are the days when Pro AV equipment was its own entity. Its convergence with IT and existence on the network—not to mention
“[These services] are very useful, but if you’re
every AV device like a server on the network and treat
going to have them enabled it should be for a clear
every entry point as a possible attack vector,” he said.
reason,” Gonzalez said. “Have well-defined access
However, that’s just the beginning.
control for all of these openings.”
Network segmentation is crucial for system security.
If a service isn’t required, Gonzalez said it should
AV traffic should be assigned to its own VLAN (virtual
be disabled. This includes empty switch ports and
local area network) that is separate from the corporate
increased dependence on audio and video for both
network protocols that are no longer in use. Plus, each
and guest networks. Schirripa explained this prevents
internal and external messaging—makes it a key pres-
device account should contain only the permissions
unauthorized individuals from spying on company
ence in almost every organization’s technology stack.
that its user needs.
meetings, for example, without ever being detected.
For AV integrators, this is good for business, but it
“When you’re designing these things, you have to
It’s also important to harden devices. “Unused
also requires them to exercise responsibility. Like
coordinate with the client’s IT team in the beginning
services such as SSH, Telnet, and HTTP should be
everything else tech, modern AV systems need to be as
and be as detailed as possible,” Gonzalez said. “It can
disabled and unnecessary ports closed,” Schirripa
secure as possible.
be really surprising how two different organizations
said. “Authentication and encryption matter, too—
might use the same equipment, so if it’s going to work
802.1X should be used for port security wherever
Technologies, views cybersecurity design as
well and feel right for them to use but still be secure,
possible, and control protocols should run over TLS/
something similar to building a secure brick-and-
it’s got to be tailored to them like a good suit.”
SSL or similarly secure protocols.” He also reminded
Gabriel Gonzalez, audio visual SME at Mason
mortar facility. A design for a bunker, for example,
AV pros to secure physical assets by locking down
could call for a steel box featuring no doors or
Remediating Vulnerabilities
windows. While this may render the structure safe, it’s
The first step in designing a secure AV system is
also completely useless because no one can get in.
simple, according to Daniel Schirripa, senior remote
and integrators need to address, the first of which is
commissioning engineer, virtual, at Diversified. “Treat
default credentials. “Most devices ship with login
“The art of design is really in deciding where am I
racks and system peripherals. AV systems have several weak spots that designers
going to put a door? Where am I going to put a window? Who’s allowed to move through these access points? How do I secure these access points from the bad actors?” Gonzalez illustrated. The same concept applies to Pro AV equipment, which is why it’s necessary to work closely with end users and IT departments to determine how this technology will be used and what the requirements are for access and visibility. With the prevalence of Bluetooth, cloud services, and Wi-Fi, this has gotten more complicated.
40
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“The fix on the integrator side is making automated firmware management and strict password policies a standard part of every commissioning checklist.” Daniel Schirripa, Diversified
CYBERSECURITY BUSINESS
Cybersecurity for All Based in Orlando, FL, Cyber Mettle is a nonprofit focused on developing cybersecurity talent and making cybersecurity services accessible to small to mid-sized businesses. Alyson Laderman, executive director and co-author (with Jason Dion) of AI Security Essentials: Strategies for From left, Gabriel Gonzalez, Daniel Schirripa, Clay Swanson, Mike Stocklin, and Blair Dawson
Securing Artificial Intelligence Systems with the NIST AI Risk Management Framework, said the
information that’s easily found through a quick web
for the devices after installation, then you’re going
organization is responding to a key problem:
search or a glance at the manufacturer’s
to have plaintiff’s attorneys who are going to argue
When companies recruit talent, they mandate at
documentation,” Schirripa explained. This is why a
that the integrator has that implied duty and is
least three years of on-the-job experience,
unique login should be assigned to every device at the
somehow negligent or responsible,” he said.
making it extremely difficult for entry-level
login stage without exception.
Swanson added that cyber liability and technology
candidates to break into the industry.
Outdated firmware is another problem. Schirripa
errors and omissions insurance can provide
“There is no way to get to mid or high level if
observed that in some cases, it can be years before AV
integrators with some protection if they are, or could
we don’t train the entry level,” Laderman
equipment is patched; remaining on top of
be, found responsible.
explained. “It’s just a matter of developing those
manufacturer-recommended updates can go a long
For firms that provide ongoing services, such as
way in protecting systems. He added that control data
firmware or software updates and patching, Dawson
willingness to actually invest in [new talent], but
should be encrypted to prevent man-in-the-middle
counsels keeping a detailed record of when these
also in building your own business.”
attacks that could enable a malicious third party to
tasks were completed, as this can be valuable if an
take over a room.
integrator is faced with a lawsuit. “One example is an
simultaneously the cybersecurity practitioner’s
MSP that says, ‘I know I did patches on Tuesday
friend and enemy. New talent needs to know how
automated firmware management and strict password
because of Microsoft Patch Tuesday,’ but they don’t
to navigate this continually evolving landscape
policies a standard part of every commissioning
have the records,” Dawson illustrated. “Litigators
successfully. “The more we get into tech, the
checklist,” Schirripa said. “Where it makes sense,
and regulators don’t take too kindly [when you]
more we need to appreciate
building in monitoring and early warning systems
make it up after the fact. Take that extra step to
the human factor,”
adds another layer of protection.”
document things so you can prove that you’re doing
Laderman said. “How
everything that you can within reason to keep your
do we work with AI in a
environment secure.”
way that we understand
“The fix on the integrator side is making
Remote monitoring systems that provide alerts and notifications in real time can also expose the network to risk, noted Mike Stocklin, director of
pathways, guidelines, supervision, and
This is increasingly important as AI is
When a client opts out of following the AV
what it can do, what it
technology at Automation Arts and a member of the
integrator’s cybersecurity recommendations,
shouldn’t do, and what
National Systems Contractors Association (NSCA) AI &
Dawson suggests having them sign a waiver stating
the problems could be in
Cybersecurity Committee. “Anything that goes on the
that they are aware of the risk of doing so and will
using it?”
network should be considered a cybersecurity threat,”
hold themselves accountable in the event of a breach.
he warned, “[but] there are devices that are potentially more harmful, such as devices that talk consistently in
Responding to a Breach
and out of the network.”
The integrator’s role in incident response centers on
The Legal Stuff
containment and forensics, Schirripa explained.
Alyson Laderman
Some technology providers are reticent to share
When a client is breached, the first task is to isolate
information with clients that fall victim to a breach.
If a client is breached, and there’s a chance AV
the AV network. “Airgap the AV VLAN from the rest of
Dawson said this is not good practice.
technology had something to do with it, the
the corporate network right away to stop anything
integrator could potentially be found liable. Because
from spreading,” Schirripa said.
of this, it’s wise to include a clause in the contract that limits liability.
Next, the integrator should examine the logs from
“One of the things that’s really important is to be as cooperative as possible with any investigation,” she said. In not being transparent
the control processor and the DSP to learn where and
with a client—and their insurance provider or
when the system was accessed without authorization.
third-party forensic investigator—the integrator
cybersecurity practice at McDonald Hopkins, said
“Then, perform a full credential reset for every
may be increasing the client’s losses. “That’s not
liability could be defined as a month or two worth of
password and certificate across all networked AV
going to help with the relationship.”
fees, complimentary services for a specified period,
hardware,” Schirripa advised.
Blair Dawson, member in the data privacy and
or even a maximum monetary payout. “Starting with
After ensuring things are back under control, it’s
While national and global enterprise clients tend to prioritize cybersecurity, there remains a
the contract is the best way to mitigate what that
important to document where the attacker got into
significant number of organizations that need to
overall exposure could be if there was an incident,”
the system and what processes need to change. Armed
practice stronger security hygiene, Stocklin observed.
Dawson said, “or if your client thinks that you’re
with this information, AV integrators and their clients
part of an incident.”
can improve their incident response protocols.
side of the world, but I think the potential is there
“Understanding how an attack happened is the first
and we need to be fully aware of that,” Stocklin said.
responsible for what post deployment, according to
step in making sure it doesn’t happen again, and
“We need to focus on this, because the more and
Clay Swanson, risk management advisor at True
ensuring every employee knows what to watch for can
more we utilize things like AI, the more bad actors
North Companies, an insurance broker that works
go a long way toward preventing the same situation
there are that can use that same technology to get
with the NSCA. “If it’s silent on who owns security
from arising elsewhere,” Schirripa said.
into our systems.”
The contract should also spell out who is
“We [haven’t had] a lot of issues from the AV
avnetwork.com // August 2026 // SCN
41
TECHNOLOGY VIRTUAL PRODUCTION
Ready for the Virtual World
The new KIX Lab at Indiana University offers a full immersion lab environment for students.
A new production lab is helping to train the next generation of immersive storytellers. By Michael Grotticelli
I
ncoming students at Indiana University (IU)’s
in veteran systems integrator American Sound, which
hands-on learning for students to gain industry-
Media School in Bloomington, IN, have a new, fully
has completed several projects on the IU campus over
standard skills in AR, MR, and XR workflows in real
immersive video production space to go with a slate
the years. Daniel Martin, director of engineering at
time. The company said that its advanced image
of new classes on virtual and augmented reality pro-
American Sound, along with Jeremiah Cooper, project
processing technology, which it offers to universities
duction. Called the Kinetic Immersion and Extended
manager at American Sound, oversaw a team of
at a steep discount, prepares students for careers in
Reality (KIX) Lab, the area allows students to make
engineers and technicians from IA Stage and American
virtual production “through practical experience with
feature films, videos, and live productions, just like
Sound that constructed a free-standing (counter
real-time technologies.”
an increasing number of professional productions are
weighted) 32x15-foot, Unilumin 1.8mm UpadIV wall,
IU’s KIX Lab uses Pixotrope to render a background
being done today by media outlets like Fox, NBCUni-
pitched in 1-degree increments to create a seamless
scene across the LED wall. The system currently tracks
versal, and Warner Bros.
viewing experience.
a single camera and lens on only one plane using
Located in the Radio-Television Building at the IU
They also installed a motorized 19x13-foot ceiling
Pixotope’s Vision and Marker systems, but it can be
Bloomington campus, one of the largest studio spaces in
structure of Unilumin 3.9mm URMIII Pro LED
upgraded to include the LED floor and celling planes
the Midwest, the new KIX Lab is the brainchild of David
cabinets, grouped in three sections, that can be
with minimum hardware. Along with the camera
Tolchinsky, dean of the Media School and a filmmaker
lowered for ground-level maintenance and creative
tracking, the virtual production environment also uses
by trade. He saw an opportunity to create a next-level
adjustments. And there’s a 29x14-foot, Unilumin
Pixotope’s TalenTrack system, which tracks human
space that would bring the school’s curriculum in line
3.9mm UDF03 LED “dance floor.” All three LED wall
talent in real time using static cameras to optically
with what’s going on in the world of professional
configurations are operated from a single NovaStar
track and map subjects onto the virtual rendered video.
production for feature films and television.
MX6000 COEX processor. A series of Kino Flo lights for keys and fills were borrowed from the school’s theater
Teaching Production Workflows
offer IU students a full immersion lab and the very latest
department and can be hung from the ceiling LED
Virtual projects are shot against the wall using a Canon
in production tools to allow them to create high-impact
truss structure as necessary to illuminate desired
EOS C300 MKIII digital cinema camera in 4K mode with a
storytelling,” said Jay Kincaid, director of facilities and
areas of the virtual stage.
Canon 18-80mm T4.4 compact servo lens mounted to a
“As a filmmaker himself, David had the vision to
technology at the Media School. “That’s really the
All signals are fed to a nearby equipment rack for
Maxicrane Ostrich MK2 robotic camera crane. When the
mission at IU, to give students the best education and
real-time processing and monitoring. American
KIX space is complete (Phase 2 is planned), images will
opportunities to succeed in the real world.”
Sound selected Pixotope Technologies for the
be processed in real time using an Unreal Engine system.
Multi-Use Production Space
professional virtual production software that fosters
“Currently, the floor and the ceiling are not included in the Unreal Engine workflow,” Kincaid
The Radio-Television Building is also home to WTIU,
explained. “Those right now are treated more like
the Indiana Public Media TV Station, and will soon
lighting elements. It’s a better experience for the
include a large sound immersion and performance
students to use the Pixotope software for things like
space for live event projects that will cover the center of
camera tracking and 2D motion capture. We’ll be
the evolving studio space. In fact, the school is spending
adding real-time processing for all workflows at a
more than $3 million to refresh its technology facilities.
later date.” With the current setup, students can create
“Retrofitting the entire building went from being a big
wireframe renderings of their desired scenic effects. For
idea to a grand idea that could support a multitude of
creating an AR experience that interacts with graphics
departments here at IU,” Kincaid said. To see the KIX project to fruition, Kincaid brought
42
SCN // August 2026 // avnetwork.com
From left, Jay Kincaid and Daniel Martin
and other visual elements, it’s more than suitable.
VIRTUAL PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY
The system is genlocked to the building’s master control room clock to keep all devices in sync. “We’re tied to the main control room’s genlock as we are also getting feeds from their master control down into the KIX Lab space, which allows students to maintain sync at any given moment for other projects besides the immersive part,” Martin said. Calibration is another critically important element to setting up a virtual production stage LED because it bridges the gap between the physical and digital worlds, ensuring that the camera captures a seamless, photorealistic image The free-standing UNILUMIN LED wall is pitched in 1 degree increments.
rather than a mismatched, artificial-looking scene. “The Pixotope software has a way of calibrating that makes sure that the lens optics and camera are
synced in real time, both to the space and to the user,” Martin added. In this way, the parallax effect—where foreground objects appear to move faster than background objects when an actor on set moves, creating an illusion of 3D depth—is set correctly for students to use and the actors correctly appear in the virtual scene.
Budgets and Expectations IU’s Kincaid said it’s important to have a person with extensive knowledge of virtual technology workflows on hand when necessary. To this end, IU employs Scott Carmichael, who has worked in radio and television at IU for 30 years. “Scott is not only a professional graphic designer, but also a super smart guy who understands these virtual workflows,” Kincaid said, adding that Carmichael worked closely with American Sound during installation and setup. “There are so many questions when setting up and maintaining systems like these, and his knowledge helped make the KIX Lab what it is today. Without Scott and American Sound, there’s just no way this could have ever been done. So much of the success of this project was working with the right partners.” For example, American Sound understood the complex nature of project budget approvals at IU and helped the nine-month project (August 2025-April 2026) run smoothly. “What happens with so many system designers is that the budget is just kind of a suggestion and it just keeps growing,” Kincaid said. “At the. It’s never been that way with American Sound.” “There’s always a challenge to meet the budget,” Martin admitted. “In a lot of cases, it’s usually a dance and that involves ways to keep talking or reframing the conversation to what is it we’re trying to accomplish—what matters most to the client and to the space. And if you try and honor that and be true to that, there’s places where you can make compromises that don’t diminish quality nor take away the functionality that they want.” Giving students the best tools to succeed was paramount to bringing IU’s curriculum of building immersive experiences to the next level. They’ve also hired new faculty, led by Ivica Ico Bukvic, professor of media arts and production and KIX Lab director, to shepherd students through a new series of associated courses. “We prepare students for careers, knowing that when they graduate, they have a good grasp of the types of tools and technology that they’ll see in the outside world,” Kincaid said. “At the Media School, we’re always looking at the most innovative technology and then making it accessible to our students in the easiest way possible. The new KIX Lab is just the latest example of that.”
avnetwork.com // August 2026 // SCN
43
TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT SYSTEMS
Integrators … Mount Up! What should integrators look for in LED support systems? By Wayne Cavadi
W
all-in-one systems in stock, which make them
Solutions like Chief’s TiLED offerings simplify the entire dvLED video wall workflow, from specification through installation and long-term service.
uniformity, and long-term reliability.”
ready to ship quickly. They simplify installations
Much like mounting options are not the same,
because everything is preconfigured, including the
neither are the walls upon which they are mounted.
e are living in an immersive world, with
number of panels, modules, cables, processors, and
“Most ‘display problems’ are actually structure
audio systems becoming more focused
mounting hardware.
problems,” Meiner offered. “Solve the mounting layer
and digital content getting more real-
Meiner agreed. The market is moving toward
correctly and the majority of these headaches simply
istic. Displays and video walls are getting larger and
consolidation, he explained, which means clients want
more defined as well, which means knowing what is
fewer vendors, faster timelines, and a single point of
This presents the biggest challenge in mounting
behind that display is more important than ever.
accountability. All-in-one solutions answer all three.
systems, as not all walls are perfectly flat—and the
From lobbies to control rooms to retail and
do not materialize.”
For example, the Refinio Media Wall by Peerless-AV,
larger the wall gets, the larger the chance of
hospitality spaces, dvLED has moved from novelty to
a turnkey dvLED display solution for high-end meeting
inconsistencies throughout. Kozlowsky said
expectation. “Here’s a truth every integrator learns
spaces, consolidates the display, mounting structure,
sometimes mounting 3/4-inch plywood to a wall can
fast,” Robert Meiner, technical sales engineer,
and essential supporting technologies into one
create a suitable surface for installation, while other
Peerless-AV added. “The structure behind the wall
engineered system, significantly reducing pre-
situations call for a custom mounting system to
determines whether an installation looks flawless on
installation room preparation, shortens installation
achieve the flattest possible surface.
day one and stays flawless for years.”
timelines, and helps lower overall project costs. “The practical impact is real,” Meiner said. “Less
Kozlowsky and Meiner agree that adequate access behind a video wall or display is a must. Many all-in-
All-in-One or Bust?
time on site. Fewer surprises. A more predictable bill of
one systems are installed by lowering the display
One of the big questions for integrators today revolves
materials. For small and midsize integration teams
panels onto a wall-mounted bracket, Kozlowsky
around the simplicity of installation. Is there a
especially, that efficiency translates directly into
explained, so clearance must be available above the
one-size-fits-all approach to supporting dvLED
margin and the ability to take on more projects
recess to allow the display to be installed properly.
displays and video walls? Are all-in-one solutions now
without expanding crews.”
the go-to? Unfortunately, there is no one answer, as several
Planning and Precision Required
LEDs also generate quite a bit of heat. Per Meiner, a mount that ignores airflow or buries access points creates long-term maintenance headaches. Sufficient
factors play a role in the decision. The larger and
According to Justin Spangler, senior director of service
space also needs to be considered for cable
heavier a display installation, the more necessary a
and support at Planar, one of the biggest
management, processors, and other serviceable
custom solution becomes. The structure of the build,
misconceptions about dvLED is that it’s simply
components.
whether it’s a wall or a floor, may not be suitable for
another display that mounts to a wall. The reality is
the ease of installation provided by an all-in-one
that successful LED installations require an
access is one of the most overlooked specification
system, thus requiring a customized approach.
exceptional level of planning and precision.
decisions in any dvLED video wall project. Front-
However, according to John Kozlowsky, channel
“Challenges often include structural
Unfortunately, as Meiner pointed out, service
serviceable designs, he offered, allow a technician to
manager at Absen, all-in-one solutions are
engineering, wall flatness, mounting tolerances
remove and replace an individual cabinet from the face
becoming increasingly popular for dvLED projects on
measured in fractions of an inch, power and signal
of the wall, usually with magnetic or mechanical pull
a smaller scale in corporate boardrooms, conference
coordination, environmental conditions, logistics,
tools. Rear-serviceable designs require working space
rooms, classrooms, and retail environments where
and coordinating multiple construction trades,”
behind the array and suit applications with a dedicated
requirements are relatively straightforward and
Spangler added. “Even small installation
service corridor or freestanding structure.
timelines may be tight. Many manufacturers keep
inaccuracies can affect panel alignment, image
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“The best practice is simple,” he concluded.
SUPPORT SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY
video walls, dvLED arrays leave nothing to hide behind,” Meiner said. “There are no bezels to mask a misaligned tile. A fraction of a millimeter of variance between cabinets shows up as a visible seam or shadow line the moment content plays. PeerlessAV’s SEAMLESS dvLED mounting systems are engineered for exactly this challenge. “The Connect Series is built to the precise specifications of major panel manufacturers, so
From left, John Kozlowsky, David Albright, Robert Meiner, and Justin Spangler
cabinets land where they should with the alignment “Decide on the service strategy at the design stage, not after the wall is built. Match the substructure to the
its Planar Care maintenance program. “Our collaboration begins well before the first
tolerances dvLED demands,” he continued. “Features like fine micro-adjustment, integrated cable
access you will realistically have in that room. The
panel is installed through design reviews, site
management, and serviceable access are not extras.
right mounting system makes panel replacement a
readiness assessments, constructability evaluations,
They are what separates a clean install from a callback.”
quick, low-stress swap rather than a disruptive
installation planning, logistics coordination, and
operation, and that directly protects the client’s
dedicated project management,” Spangler said.
continuing to reinvent wall mount solutions for
uptime and your service reputation.”
“Several members of our Project Management Office
modern day installation. Its Zaxxis Micro dvLED
hold Project Management Professional [PMP]
video wall mount, which was unveiled at InfoComm
is yet another challenge to dvLED installations: There
certifications, bringing proven project management
2026, offers precise Z-axis depth control in a 43mm
are none. At least just yet.
methodologies to complex deployments.”
profile. Meanwhile, Absen’s all-in-one Saturn Series
The Pro AV industry loves standardization, which
“We’re much closer than just a couple years ago,”
Chief’s TiLED Universal Wall Mount solutions are
Other manufacturers, such as Mount-It! PRO, are
features rear-serviceable modules and power boxes,
explained David Albright, senior product manager,
another way to simplify dvLED installations.
and can transform into several configurations like
video wall mounts and services, Legrand|AV, Chief.
Albright said the mount is compatible with more
curves, cylinders, and arcs.
“The challenge has never been simply attaching a
than 95% of interlocking dvLED cabinets from
display to the wall. It’s creating a mounting system
virtually every major display manufacturer including
careful planning of dvLED and LED walls and
that’s flexible enough to accommodate the differences
Absen, Barco, Hikvision, INFiLED, LG, LianTronics,
displays is more important now than ever before.
between cabinet designs while delivering the precision
Philips, Planar, Samsung, Sharp, Sony, Unilumin,
Working with manufacturers from planning and
alignment adjustments required for today’s fine pixel
and many others.
through the lifespan of the wall, whether it is with
pitch microLED displays.”
While Chief offers display-specific TiLED mounts,
Whether you go all-in-one or a customized fit,
their online tools or after-installation care, dodges
its TiLED Universal systems give integrators a single
many of the pitfalls behind the display. If challenges
common dvLED mounting platform that works across
are addressed and installations are done correctly,
These challenges reinforce why specialized
nearly every project. This simplifies specification,
the dvLED video wall will shine and bring awe to
installation expertise matters. According to
inventory, and installation because integrators can
visitors, while the support system remains the
Spangler, Planar acts as an extension of the
standardize on one solution instead of relying on
unsung hero.
integrator’s team from project conception through
multiple manufacturer-
final commissioning.
specific products.
Tools of the Trade
The company’s Professional Services
Peerless-AV
organization focuses exclusively on LED display
unleashed the Refinio
deployments, and that commitment extends well
Media Wall at ISE 2026,
beyond installation. Planar provides comprehensive
but its SEAMLESS dvLED
post-installation support through technical support,
mounting systems have
field service, preventative maintenance,
long been a “go-to” for
replacement part management, repair services, and
integrators. “Unlike LCD
The structure behind the wall determines whether an installation looks flawless on day one and stays flawless for years.
avnetwork.com // August 2026 // SCN
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TECHNOLOGY CLOUD POWER
A Turning Point for AI in Pro AV We’re moving past embedded technology and into real-time applications in the cloud.
compute. Holoscan for Media was built to enable multi-vendor applications with compressed and uncompressed media support through ST 2110 and other interfaces. When we started our work in partnership with NVIDIA on Holoscan for Media, we had a much larger vision for replacing hardware systems with completely software-defined workflows in mind. But in today’s hyper-inflated compute cost environment, that’s not as practical as we and the market expected it to be. It
By Dave Van Hoy
O
Of the low hanging fruit today are tools for
doesn’t mean that the concept of using modular
closed captioning, translation, and localization. All
software-defined products in our real-time
of us who’ve installed systems for multinational
production and AV worlds is off the table. It just
h no, not another article about AI, you may
corporations have been grappling with these topics
means, as always, using the right tool for the right job
be thinking. But this time, we’re addressing
for decades, starting as requirements around
at the right cost.
where cloud computing and AI converge,
captioning, then translation and localization. AI
We cannot solve the issue of translating a CEO’s
and what that means for us as systems integrators in
technology has matured to the point where it is now
speech into multiple languages in a video switcher,
the Pro AV space in our mission to provide the best
deployable in our clients’ spaces running on local
video router, or any other part of the video
service to our clients.
hardware, which eliminates many of the security
ecosystem, but we can solve that by running AI on
concerns that previously existed.
prem for our clients. At the 2026 NAB Show, NVIDIA
First, some definitions so we’re all speaking the same language. The classical definition of cloud is a
Through the NVIDIA Holoscan for Media initiative,
demonstrated the ability to translate a commentator
method of doing compute. Cloud refers to a group of
AI modules called NVIDIA NIM (NVIDIA Inference
into three different languages, closed caption those
computers working in concert, and that term has been
Microservices) are being deployed that provide
languages, and adjust the lip sync so that each
around long before Amazon or Google existed. For
containers to self-host microservices for customized
language looked natural. All running a set of NIMs in
systems integrators today, it’s important to return to
AI models across clouds, data centers, and RTX AI
a scaled Holoscan for Media environment on a single
that classical definition, because cloud means a group of computers working in a coordinated way that could be on premise, in a co-location, in a client’s data center, or in a public hyperscaler or a neoscaler (tailored equipment and software to a particular clients’ needs). In the classic sense of cloud compute, up until now we’ve been talking about methods for transforming signal workflows and workloads from dedicated hardware to software running in compute. As the capabilities of compute have continued to evolve and
As this year progresses, we’ll see more products coming into general availability.
applications we’ll see throughout this year that are practical, deployable, and will fit within our clients’ budgets and cost structures.
Stay Aware of What’s Available What is that going to look like for systems contractors as we go to sell these products and services to our clients? It’s going to break down into multiple parts, as every system does. First and foremost, we’re going to need to learn the ANNABELLE CHIH/BLOOMBERG VIA GETTY IMAGES
we’ve moved to software-defined infrastructures, we
computer in real time. These are the beginnings of
could be running them in a hyperscaler, on our client’s premises, or in a third-party data center. This opens the door for us to begin to add services that would not be possible in a traditional SDI, HDMI, or NDI-based hardware environment—and where the application of AI is both useful to our clients and commercially viable today. Much of what is written about AI is still very forward facing. However, today we see applications that we can install for our clients in useful ways.
AI Tech Deployable Today This is a turning point in the systems integration world. Previously, much of our talk about what AI might or might not do has been very specific to a vendor embedding a technology in a device, such as tracking a speaker with a camera. But, today, via the work that NVIDIA and others have done, we have practical applications that can run in real-time systems to assist our clients now. These applications are not only useful to our clients but create recurring revenue for us and help spread the cost as an OpEx load.
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An employee demonstrates a Nvidia Cop. IGX and Holoscan sensor on display in Taipei, Taiwan.
CLOUD POWER TECHNOLOGY
services that are available today to sell to our clients,
on each vendor, how their product deploys, and how
next week. I encourage you to seek out vendors, learn
and that will include understanding who the vendors
we train our customers to use it. These are skills we’re
the marketplace, and understand these ecosystems,
are, what the risks of deploying those vendors are, and
all familiar with and have been doing for many years.
as they will be highly valuable to our clients in the
what the business models look like. This is the same as
This is the first time since I’ve written this column
all products we’ve deployed throughout our careers. Some of the AI-enabled applications becoming
near term.
where I can say that everything we’re talking about
Dave Van Hoy is the president of Advanced Systems
this quarter are things you can deploy for your clients
Group, LLC. Contact him at dvh@asgllc.com.
available in our real-time production world include the ability to use AI to upconvert material with greater quality than any previous technology provided. And AI provides a more nuanced set of tools for automatically reframing 9:16 for vertical streaming. In terms of audio, Ross Video showed a widely deployed AI audio mixing tool at NAB called Lama, which provides sophisticated audio mixing with less user interaction. These are tools that can be deployed in real time, on-prem client facilities today. As this year progresses, we’ll see more products coming into general availability. These are continuous opportunities for us to help our clients evolve their systems and workflows, and provide better capabilities at lower operational costs.
A Sea Change for Integrators How does this work in today’s on-prem systems? It means you’ll be configuring and installing compute, either individual computers or small clusters in our client spaces, where we have traditionally put other devices, such as video switchers and other products that have evolved to become computer based. It also means that these systems are going to need real-time audio and video I/O. It will be important to understand the signal flow in your existing system that you’re adding these capabilities to, so the compute systems you’re building can be configured optimally. Is it SDI? Is it NDI? Is it HDMI? This is where we take a different approach to the marketplace, because now we’re looking at augmenting existing on-prem, real-time systems with small clouds of compute within the existing environment. We’re bending the compute to fit the existing environment, as opposed to bending the workflow to fit the compute. This is a sea change in opportunities for systems integrators—it brings these sophisticated capabilities into a place that doesn’t require a major pivot in operations. What do you need to do to get ready for this? As we begin to deploy this into our client sites, the most important set of skills for integration firms is that we have staff trained and ready to deploy virtualized and containerized applications on premise. Most traditional AV integrators have not had to do this previously. The skills you will require will depend on your vendor partners. Some may choose to run their products in virtualized Windows environments using Hyper-V, others may choose Docker or Kubernetes environments. All of these are related but require different certifications and skills. Then, of course, there will be the specific training
avnetwork.com // August 2026 // SCN
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avnetwork.com // August 2026 // SCN
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TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS
Planar 21by9 Series
HDR10+ certified displays enhance
mini-LED backlight coupled with
Planar’s new line of premium 5K 21:9 LCD displays is
picture quality and enable more
dual-brightness enhancement
designed to deliver panoramic viewing and enhance
dynamic content presentation.
technology, driving a wide color
productivity. The new Planar 21by9 Series presents a
Available in precision metal-mesh
gamut, 1,000,000:1 HDR dynamic
commercial-grade, 24/7 display solution with 81, 94,
capacitive touch and non-touch
contrast, and peak brightness of up
and 105-inch sizes running native at 120Hz refresh. The
versions, the Planar 21b9 Series features a quantum dot
to 2,500 nits. Users can easily maneuver floating picture-in-picture in multiple input layouts. The entire line is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which means an installed depth of less than 4 inches from wall to front of display in any size.
Draper Ultimate Folding Screen Lite The new Ultimate Folding Screen (UFS) Lite from Draper is engineered for single-person setup in under five minutes— simply unfold the frame and integrated legs, then unroll and attach the viewing surface. The integrated legs come with height adjustment bars that allow adjusting up to 4 inches, and the unique triangle design feet allow for easy gliding and smooth movement on any floor, including carpet. The UFS Lite frame, including integrated legs, folds down to 48 inches for easy storage and transport. Frame and legs are crafted from the same rugged clear anodized aluminum tubing as the Ultimate Folding Screen for maximum quality and durability. The UFS Lite is available in 6, 7, and 9-foot-wide HDTV sizes with front and rear projection surfaces.
Audinate Dante AVIO Install Audinate has three new additions to its Dante AVIO Install adapter series: Dante AVIO Install 4-Ch Analog Input, 4-Ch Analog Output, and 2-Ch In/2-Ch Out Analog , all featuring dual switched Ethernet ports that allow up to four units to share a single network drop via daisy-chaining. Designed for AV integration, Dante AVIO Install adapters provide a compact, costeffective way to convert analog audio to Dante for both new and existing installations. Euroblock terminals support the fixed wiring that permanent installations demand, while an included bracket and Dante AVIO ClickGrid system give integrators the flexibility to mount adapters under shelves or wherever they are needed. The new models allow for higher channel density when connecting to installed AV equipment, reducing the number of adapters needed to convert multiple channels to Dante or handle bidirectional audio at a single endpoint.
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PRODUCTS TECHNOLOGY
SAVY TB2A The SAVY Portable Adjustable Height PTZ Stand TB2A is a movable camera stand designed specifically for PTZ cameras used in live events and hybrid production environments. Created to solve one of live
M&W D24/D32
production’s most common challenges—
Designed for live sound reinforcement, the D24 and
Sony SRG-AS10/SRG-XS10
D32 digital mixers employ large touchscreens that
The SRG-AS10 is a 4K 60p-compatible auto framing
temporary event spaces—the TB2A
enhance operational ease, ergonomics, and access to
PTZ camera that uses Sony’s proprietary AI to
provides a clean, stable, and visually
important information in the channel strip.
automatically recognize and track subjects, while with
unobtrusive alternative to improvised
Touchscreen-based faders (13 for the D24, 17 for the
the SRG-XS10 a basic 4K PTZ camera. Both models are
mounting methods. Built with a heavy
D32) offer features that aren’t possible in small-
equipped with a 1/2.8-type 4K image sensor featuring
triangular steel base and a 2-inch pipe-
screen digital mixers. Each mixer offers more than 100
STARVIS, Sony’s proprietary image sensor
style vertical structure, the stand offers
unique screens, and each fader strip displays 10
technology, which enables clear video capture even in
professional aesthetics and durability
important channel parameters. Pop-ups enable
low-light environments. The SRG-AS10 and
for demanding production
adjustments of input gain, low cut, polarity,
SRG-XS10 support up to 10x optical zoom in 4K. In
environments. Its reaches more
headphone level, fader color-coding, fader groups,
addition, using Tele Convert Mode, they support up to
than 9 feet tall and utilizes a
and more—without leaving the home mixing screen.
20x zoom in Full HD, providing flexible framing for a
clamp screw, safety pin, and
The D32 offers 32 mic/line preamps with Peter Watts’
wide variety of capture and streaming scenarios. They
height-indexing holes for
new Lyric shielded preamp design, while the D24 has
also deliver fluid camera movement without abrupt
secure and repeatable positioning. Integrated
24 Lyric preamps. A 10-channel simple mixer mode is
acceleration or deceleration. The cameras are suitable
tilt-back wheels simplify transport, loading, and
designed for church volunteers, conference operators,
for a wide range of shooting distances in concert halls,
setup. SAVY also offers optional single or dual PTZ
and others. Browser-based tablet mixing requires no
theaters, gymnasiums, and similar venues, and their
camera mounting configurations, allowing
additional software. Each mixer also includes a
compact, lightweight design blends seamlessly into
production teams to capture both wide and tight
12-function foot pedal.
various environments.
shots from the same camera position.
COMPONENT PARTS
CONNECTORS & ADAPTORS
FIBER CABLES
where to properly position PTZ cameras in
FLYPACKS & ROAD CASES
MODULAR FLOOR BOXES & CUTOMIZED PANELS
To Advertise in the SCN CLASSIFIEDS, Contact Zahra Majma zahra.majma@futurenet.com
avnetwork.com // August 2026 // SCN
49
VIEWPOINT
A Disposable Dilemma It’s time to get real about the scale of Pro AV’s battery consumption. By Stian Sagholen
F
or years, single-use batteries have been
venue manager to solve the global battery crisis. What
forward. Touring crews, venue technicians, and
they can influence is how much they spend on batteries
corporate AV teams are expected to do more with
and what their environmental impact looks like.
fewer people and tighter turnaround times.
The first step is tracking battery usage properly.
Reducing last-minute battery runs, simplifying
treated as a background issue in Pro AV.
Many teams don’t have enough visibility into how
charging workflows, and increasing runtime makes
They’re small, relatively inexpensive, and
many batteries are being purchased, stored, used, and
work easier.
easy to replace, so most teams just get on with the
discarded across productions or facilities. Once those
job. But ask an audio engineer, stage manager, or
numbers are added up alongside purchasing costs,
recent EPA report to Congress cited recycling rates
facilities technician how many AA or AAA batteries
disposal requirements, and day-to-day operational
for alkaline batteries at just 4%. That means the
their organization actually uses in a year, and many
pressure, battery management becomes a serious
overwhelming majority end up in landfill, not recovery.
struggle to answer with confidence.
business issue.
That’s understandable. Battery consumption builds
Recycling matters, regardless of the battery. A
In Europe, the EU Battery Regulation 2023/1542
Integrators, venues, and production teams need to
introduced stricter sustainability, collection, and
quietly in the background—a few wireless microphones
ask the tough questions. Start counting batteries.
recycling requirements across the battery lifecycle,
on stage, some beltpacks, or a handful of in-ear
Estimate annual consumption. Understand the cost
including a target to collect 73% of waste portable
receivers for every rehearsal, show, or corporate
attached to that usage. Even a rough baseline can
batteries by the end of 2030. It’s a more fragmented
presentation. But across live production, broadcast,
quickly highlight opportunities to reduce waste,
story in the United States, but states like California,
theater, house of worship, and corporate venues, those
simplify workflows, and lower long-term expenditure.
New York, and New Hampshire have introduced
numbers add up quickly. I’ve spent years working in the touring industry.
stricter rules around recycling and disposal,
Current Status
increasing pressure on businesses and end users
I’ve seen firsthand just how reliant our industry is on
The pro audio market offers several approaches to
disposable batteries. They remain a practical and
rechargeables. Major manufacturers such as Shure and
universal power source for pro audio equipment. That
Sennheiser have developed highly capable proprietary
Charging Smarter
won’t change overnight. But the scale of battery
charging ecosystems designed for their own wireless
Broadcast, music, house of worship, and corporate
waste today—and the financial and environmental
systems. They’re fantastic for reliability and visibility,
AV are all environments where battery reliability and
costs attached to it—mean it’s time to think more
but can introduce additional cost and lock users in a
operational efficiency matter. Several broadcasters,
seriously about how batteries are managed, tracked,
single vendor environment.
audio rental companies, and churches in Europe are
and replaced.
A Numbers Game At my own production company, Sonic
Then you have standard consumer rechargeables. While they’re adequate for low-drain household
to adopt more sustainable battery practices.
taking a rechargeable-first approach. Similar thinking is emerging in orchestral environments,
devices, traditional 1.2V NiMH batteries
where consistency and reliability are essential for
struggle to meet the reliability needs of
rehearsals, recordings, and live performances.
City, we operate 74 channels of wireless
demanding professional
equipment. In a typical year, that
environments. In live
from a logistics standpoint. For audio crews working
translates to more than 20,000
production, there’s no
internationally, reducing battery swaps, simplifying
single-use batteries. That’s a fairly
room for uncertainty. A
charging, and traveling with less gear makes a
common story for medium-sized
wireless mic dropping
demanding schedule a little more bearable.
touring and production operations.
out during a service,
The AV industry has transformed how it
The wider industry picture is more
keynote presentation,
approaches remote production, AV/IT workflows,
striking. Norwegian cultural institution
or live performance
cloud—and yes, AI. Battery management is a
Kulturrom estimated several years ago
isn’t acceptable.
practical issue that we’ve been too slow to address.
that Norway’s entertainment sector
Those issues are
Touring engineers are also looking at the issue
Relying entirely on proprietary systems or single-use
alone uses more than 1 million
being addressed.
power sources in an industry increasingly focused on
disposable batteries annually across
Advances in
interoperability and ROI no longer feels sustainable.
concert venues, touring productions,
rechargeable battery
theatres, and cultural events.
technology, particularly
problem. Better tracking, smarter charging
Norway is a small market.
lithium-ion systems
workflows, improved recycling practices, and
Scale that globally and the
designed for
greater awareness can all make a measurable
numbers become hard to ignore. In
professional use, are
difference to the bottom line and working culture.
the United States alone, it’s widely
helping tackle
estimated that around 3 billion
longstanding concerns
and technical precision, battery management can no
batteries are discarded every year,
around runtime
longer remain an afterthought. The teams that
many of them standard alkaline AA
predictability, charging
approach it more strategically will reduce waste,
and AAA batteries used in everyday
speed, and voltage.
lower operational costs, and make day-to-day
electronics and Pro AV equipment. It’s not down to an AV integrator or
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Operational realities are also pushing things
The encouraging part is that this is a solvable
For an industry built on reliability, preparation,
production workflows easier in the process. Stian Sagholen is the CEO and founder of Klvr.
Advances in rechargeable battery technology for professional use are helping tackle longstanding concerns around runtime predictability, charging speed, and voltage.